Lame Size Question

[Morale Officer]

I got my new foil Lame in the mail today and tried it on just to make sure everything fit ok. I ordered it larger than my jacket, but it feels more like my jacket size than larger. I know I'm going to have to exchange it for a size larger, but my question is how much larger than your jacket should you size your lame? Also, I'm going to be starting Sabre here, but when it comes to ordering a Sabre Lame, how much bigger should you go?

[Purple Fencer]

I typically go one size up (since the jackets and lames are usually cut from the same pattern). However, sometimes manufacurers will change the cut, which affects the fit. I have one client who has 2 lames of the same size fro teh same maker....one fits perfectly, the other doesn;t cover all the target area.

[Morale Officer]

Since it's getting to be "that time of year" again, I was thinking of asking my parents for a Sabre Lame for Christmas. I've looked at the reviews and looked around online and I have to ask, has anyone used Escrime lames? What's the sizing like (I saw that for women they do go up fairly high, but wasn't sure if that's equivalent to inches or what)? How long do they last (if "not abused" and used maybe twice a week)?
Also, has anyone used AF Sabre Lames? My only issue would be sizing (I'm a little broad in the shoulders and a little broad around - my jacket is a 48 or a 50).