Fencing.Net - Your Guide to Fencing & Fencing Equipment

Nolano · 10-21-2007, 08:59 PM

Hey everyone.

I've been fencing Epee for about 6 months now, and I'm to the point where I feel like I'm starting to get good at it. I've been using a non FIE STM epee blade, which has served me pretty well, but its quite stiff, and I doubt it's going to last much longer.
My Instructor has 2 Leon Paul epee's, and I love them. They're light, very flexible, and they have a very nice feel. I've checked out Leon Paul's US store, and I can get a full epee, ultra light parts and everything, for about $133. However, I haven't had the chance to fence with them, as he's quite protective of them. So I have a few concerns about it that I'm not sure about.
As stiff as my STM is, something I love about it is I can get great strength with the blade. People will try to beat the blade and it just doesn't really work. With the reduced weight of the forte on the LP, I'm worried I may lose a lot of this.
Does anyone have any input on this? I like the LP's a lot, but I'm also open to other nice epees in that price range.

DesertFencer · 10-21-2007, 09:03 PM

I use the LP epee and had the same concerns but the LP was the right choice for me. I learned to rely on finesse more than a heavy blade and strength. It took a lot of bruises to make that bulb turn on.

You'll love the dependability and feel of the LP. It's just my $0.02, but I say you can't go wrong.

Tomas N · 10-21-2007, 09:30 PM

I've used both the LP and different BF blades along with a slew of others. The LP is a great blade in a lot of ways. One problem is that it might be hard for you to switch back and forth between an LP and a stiffer epee blade. The LP allows for easier flicks, which is good in some situations, but in others you may find that the point isn't exactly where you expect it to be, especially if you are used to a traditional blade.

Tomas

Nolano · 10-21-2007, 10:49 PM

I think I'll talk to my coach about it a bit more, but at this point, if I buy a new one right now, it's going to be the LP. As long as I dont lose all opposition ability, I'll be ok.

DangerMouse · 10-22-2007, 06:55 PM

I assume you fence at EFC. If you can make it into the UO rec center, we have an epee with an LP blade you can try. Personally, I don't like them even though I used to use them exclusively.

Nolano · 10-22-2007, 07:20 PM

Oh, I didn't know the UO rec center had any fencing. Any specific times/dates?

CvilleFencer · 10-22-2007, 11:48 PM

LP epee blades are funny. They last forever, and as such are a good value. They are also very light and come in a range anywhere from stiff to very flexible. The catch is that for higher level timing and actions they don't quite feel right. As you get to be a better fencer, say Div 1ish, they start to loose their appeal for most of us. The point seems to get lost, the flex is to much and along to much of the blade, and so forth.

However, for newer fencers, younger fencers or for club blades I think they are great. Also I know some other Div I fencers that use them and do well with them. Depends a bit on style and preference. Of course the LP Kpro blades fix a lot of the problems of the gutter style blades, just for a LOT more money. And no French Grip option...

So, short version is that if you can afford it I think they are great blades for newish fencers. When the time comes to replace it, maybe you will want a blade with different characteristics, but then again maybe not. For the money though, they are great blades and a good option.

DangerMouse · 10-23-2007, 02:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nolano

Oh, I didn't know the UO rec center had any fencing. Any specific times/dates?

We practice 6-8 MWF. The catch is you need to have access to the UO rec center. If you don't you can't get in to fence with us. If you DO have access and want to try a weapon with an LP blade, you could come next Friday at 7:00 (there's a beginning class until 7:00).