Just starting out...

[LisaP]

Greetings from 'The Beach!' I hope everyone is well.... I have a few quick questions. I've read through these threads and didn't see, but if I am asking a question that has been asked before I apologize.

I just started out (just completed my 2nd class) and wondering what equipment I should buy right away..... Also, is it better to buy a package starter set or everything separately? Sorry if this sounds really ignorant but I want to make sure I am going into this with my eyes wide open.

Thank you all in advance for all your help!

[RITFencing]

Hello, Lisa! There are a number of threads on the subject; you might want to familiarize yourself witht he search function in the top right hand corner of the page. To summarize them, however: An FIE mask is a really wonderful thing to have at any level. The FIE is the international governing mody of fencing, and they have a set of standards for equipment which is pretty high. Masks which meet that standard are therefore usualyl very safe, and you don't want to skimp on protecting your eyes and face. I personally use a Leon Paul Contour Fit FIE mask, available in the store here or at www.leonpaulusa.com. It's easily the best mask I have ever owned or used.

Other than that, you might want to think of getting your own glove. Club gloves tend to be ratty and nasty, and it's just nice to have one that you know will fit you and is clean.

You'll find that the FIE range of masks are very expensive, and so you might want to wait a bit before dropping that amount of money, to make sure you really want to stick with the sport.

If you do decide to keep fencing for a long time, I think it would be best to buy really nice gear one bit at a time, since if you buy a bunch of low end stuff you'll either want or need to replace it eventually and will probably end up shopping in the high end eventually.

[little_old_me]

Also, since your name's Lisa I'll assume you're female. You may want to look into investing in your own chest protector. From what I've heard from clubmates, it's hard to find one that actually fits in most clubs' beginner stuff.

So, I'd suggest Chest Protector and Glove first, then buy stuff individually as you decide you need it. Start with the most personal items.

P.S. Welcome to the sport. It's always great to have a new fencer in good old Lower Carolina. Which weapon?

[KD5MDK]

I'm going to echo what they said about chest protector and glove first. After that, mask, jacket, underarm protector and knickers. Starter sets are allright, but make sure you get one which has an underarm protector, as those are required for competition (and a good idea in general).

[Five Rings]

Many starter sets also have back zip jackets which are a real pain to put on (but works if you are ambidexterous - not many of those around I would guess). They also fob you off with a cheap mask and a cheap weapon. I second RIT in getting a FIE mask - they are better made (usually). Also, talk to other fencers about brands, etc. they have used.

BTW, does anyone ever use a club glove? My club doesn't even have gloves to share on the basis that these get ratty and smelly.

[little_old_me]

Heh, my club at school has what are supposed to be gloves. They look more like pieces of leather that have been run across a cheese grater.

The place I fence for the summer provides leather garden gloves. More incentive to go and get your own.

[LisaP]

Thanks guys! I'm off to go shopping!

[DangerMouse]

Just to help, here are a couple sites I send my students to:

www.absolutefencinggear.com has good beginner uniforms very cheap - I really like their generic gloves.
www.thefencingpost.com also has decent beginner uniforms cheap and a great selection of weapons and parts for a good price.

[RITFencing]

A few quick notes... if you can try before you buy, I'd do so. Also, if you decide to get a uniform, get at least a 350N rated one. I have personally put holes in several cheapo jackets (and had holes put in one or two of mine.)

[KD5MDK]

don't forget shop.fencing.net