about the batch of BF

[vicepang]

The batch of BF EPEE blade

12-06

many fencer found it is not in good quality

the foible is too weak

any ppl have same feeling?

[piste off]

I recently bought two 12-06 BF white epee blades in a desire to go lighter (I was, and am in practice, using Vnitis). I've reserved them as comp weapons, and can't give you an assessment of their durability based on actual use.

That said, 30 years of fencing/blade experience tells me these will not last that long (comparible to others, such as the Vnitis). Since I am pretty easy on blades (have not broken one all year), and since these are reserved for tournaments only... they should last awhile.

I did notice that the foilables look weak, and every one that I looked at in the store (Absolute) had the same flaw - a thinning of the metal on the right side up near the tip.

If you want a durable blade, go for the Vnitis. The only reason that I went elsewhere is that I switched back to a French grip and I am old so I need all the help I can get. It should be less of an issue (weight) if you are a pistol grip fencer. True, they have different feels, but you can adjust to that. Another option is to try the new LP K-blades (I'd run to them, but I like a little flex in the blade).

Rick

[piste off]

One more thing... another reason that durability should be an issue is safety. After seeing a fencing accident at last week's practice... it reminded me how important that is. Blades that break a lot are putting more risk on your friends and training partners. I'd rather fence with a blade that had more durability/safety at the expense of a few grams in weight or that cost a few dollars more.

I wish BF would get it right. It would be nice to have a blade that had the right feel and durability even if it cost a little more. Where the hell did you go, Scaroni?

Rick

[vicepang]

Reply to piste off:

So I can sum up as follow:

For competition: BF white is a good choice

For training or extensive use: other FIE blade is better

Am I right?

[piste off]

Originally Posted by vicepang

Reply to piste off:

So I can sum up as follow:

For competition: BF white is a good choice

For training or extensive use: other FIE blade is better

Am I right?

I'd probably recommend sticking to one for both. I've switched back and forth, but it can cause adjustment issues.

Try one of the new LP K-blades if you want light and stiff but greater durability than BF, or the Vniti if you want durability, a more flexible blade (the recent ones are not nearly as "wet noodley" as some here say) but don't mind a little extra weight.

I can't believe that the forges can't make blades like they did 10-15 years ago. The old Scaronis were awesome for those that liked a stiff blade with some life, and one of the runs (certainly not all) of France-Lames were perfect for balance, lack of kinkiness (?) and feel with a nice subtle degree of flex. With the prices of some of the blades today, I think we deserve more.

Rick

[vicepang]

I guess

Highly computerized process

is worse than hand made blade?