need new fencing mask -- PBT?

[Sciurus-Rex]

I'm starting the process of fencing mask investment. Looking at PBT maybe. Definitely FIE quality. So two questions: How have PBT masks held up for you? And if not PBT, what's the preferred brand/model?

Thanks.

[FoilyDeath]

Not sure about PBT, but if your looking for a good mask, Prieur are the way to go, or so people say. I usually stick with LP, who also make great stuff (contour fit).tic

[JayhawkPawn]

PBT is good, but not for as much as you'll have to pay for it. LP is expensive and good, the comfort-fit system is awesome, but the bib is a bit short on your throat, so wouldn't be my first choice for epee. Uhlmann is of comparable quality, but it is now made in China. Go for the FWF, it is made exactly the same, but by germans, in Germany. Negrini and Gjardoni are both quality masks, but for now, finding the latter Italian mask won't be so easy, at least for a few months or so.

Do you really need a FIE mask? How much are you going to spend? What weapon/s do you fence?

And don't listen to people who say "FIE OR NOTHING." That's dumb, and in most cases, a waste of money. Think of all the times you've been hit in the throat, and remember that FIE bibs have -less- padding, they're just puncture resistant.

[DangerMouse]

LP and Prieur are the best made. FWF and Negrini are close seconds. PbT, Uhlmann, and Allstar are just a step below.

[fencerbill]

I can't be critical if you are willing to go FIE. But the quality of less expensive masks has improved dramatically over about the last 5 years. I am not saying they are as good as FIE but they are twice as good compared to about 10 years ago.

[D+F+P=Hadouken!]

I would suggest getting FIE gear if you are serious about fencing.

If you're not serious about fencing, then you deserved to be stabbed in the face.

[Sciurus-Rex]

Do you really need a FIE mask? How much are you going to spend? What weapon/s do you fence?

My current mask is a Negrini. And, yes, I opted for FIE-standard because the stainless steel doesn't rust. I sweat a LOT. It's been worth it.

Definitely FIE quality.

I would suggest getting FIE gear if you are serious about fencing.

Right. Gotcha.

Thanks for all the feedback so far. I'll keep bumping this thread for a bit to capture a few more comments.

[Smyles]

...I opted for FIE-standard because the stainless steel doesn't rust. I sweat a LOT. It's been worth it.

The cage of all the LP masks are stainless, if that's the main reason you're going for FIE. You'll save a bit of money getting a non-FIE and have the advantage of the stainless steel.

http://www.leonpaulusa.com/fencing/a...Range__76.html

[JayhawkPawn]

I would suggest getting FIE gear if you are serious about fencing internationally.

There ya go, fixed it for you.

[FoilyDeath]

There ya go, fixed it for you.

Well said..been fencing nigh on 10 years now, and I use my non FIE LP mask when I don't need to use the FIE one. Keeps it from getting damage, and generally keeps my throat in good shape.

[Zilverzmurfen]

I'm very happy with my Allstar mask. I'll buy a second mask soon-ish and it will be a Leon Paul, because I'm curious in trying out their 'contour fit' system.

I've found the PBT masks to be a lot heavier than other masks, so for the money you're going to spend I'd suggest another brand. Happy shopping.

[Asprin]

Contour-fit is worth the extra £5 (dunno what it is in $).

[Sciurus-Rex]

OK, thanks for the feedback.
Let's tie down this thread, though, and spin off a new one so I can focus on one particular aspect.

No more comments needed here.

[El Chucko]

The cage of all the LP masks are stainless...

I don't think that this is true.

I had heard the same thing, and asked about it. I am pretty sure that LP told me that this is not the case. Sorry, but I can't find the source of this.

Maybe Barry or Alex can confirm this?

[Smyles]

Well the 3rd and 4th masks down on this page say that the cage is stainless . No information about the cage for the first two though, which would be what you'd be looking at buying.
http://www.leonpaulusa.com/fencing/a...Range__76.html

I was almost certain that I read somewhere that all LP cages were now being made from stainless... I could very well be wrong though


You know what they say:
To assume is to make...

[KD5MDK]

I believe the F100 and FIE masks are the same cage, so if you're buying their competition range or FIE range you're getting the same steel, but I can't see why they'd have separate "F100" and "29" masks if the steel wasn't different, simply from a product lineup standpoint, even beyond

The mesh is made from stainless steel making them almost as strong as the F.I.E masks

Meaning it cannot be as strong as the F100 masks whose steel IS as strong as the FIE masks.

If my understanding is correct.