taking care of the lexan masks

[sabrefencer93]

I have a visor mask and Iwas just wondering if anyone knows of any type of covering for this mask. Its an AF FIE 2009 sabre mask. Its getting scratched up pretty bad and ive only fenced with it about three times now.

[oiuyt]

I have a visor mask and Iwas just wondering if anyone knows of any type of covering for this mask. Its an AF FIE 2009 sabre mask. Its getting scratched up pretty bad and ive only fenced with it about three times now.

http://www.leonpaulusa.com/fencing/a...nfo_285PB.html

Second from the bottom on this page.

Use that at all times and you should be pretty much scratch-free.

-B

[Inquartata]

Do take it off before fencing, though. You don't have superpowers like Brad does.

[I_luv_saber]

I was under the impression LP had a removable "scratch layer" (not sure whether sold separately or not), so when it started getting scratched up you would just remove the scratch layer and replace it with a fresh one. This way the lexan actually stays clear through the life of the lexan.

[oiuyt]

Do take it off before fencing, though. You don't have superpowers like Brad does.

NO!

If you do that then you run the risk of getting the lexan scratched. The OP doesn't appear to be asking about how to prevent scratches between fencing session, but rather during fencing.

Using the LP mask bag AT ALL TIMES is going to be better at preventing scratches than removing it just when the lexan is most at risk.

-B

[oiuyt]

(not sure whether sold separately or not)

It is offered separately.

-B

[SJCFU#2]

I was under the impression LP had a removable "scratch layer" (not sure whether sold separately or not), so when it started getting scratched up you would just remove the scratch layer and replace it with a fresh one. This way the lexan actually stays clear through the life of the lexan.

Click here to go to Leon Paul USA's web site, then look for item 285VN down near the bottom of the page.

Since there is no standard for visor size there's not guarantee that it will be compatibility with all other maker's masks. Fortunately LP makes one of the largest visors out there and supposedly it's not too difficult to trim the outer visor to fit.

You may also want to read section 2.1.2 of Annex A to the material section of the rulebook (you can download your own copy from the USFA website). It contains additional guidance related to care of visor masks (such as a recommendation to avoid all contact with chemical agents and in particular with PVC).

[SJCFU#2]

NO!

If you do that then you run the risk of getting the lexan scratched. The OP doesn't appear to be asking about how to prevent scratches between fencing session, but rather during fencing.

Using the LP mask bag AT ALL TIMES is going to be better at preventing scratches than removing it just when the lexan is most at risk.

-B

Of course the most effective way to protect the visor from scratches is to use a traditional mesh mask for practice and tournaments where it isn't required, and only bring out the visor mask when it's actually required (which IIRC doesn't even start until you reach the round of 32 at a World Cup event).

[sabrefencer93]

I was under the impression LP had a removable "scratch layer" (not sure whether sold separately or not), so when it started getting scratched up you would just remove the scratch layer and replace it with a fresh one. This way the lexan actually stays clear through the life of the lexan.

Leon Paul does have one,my mask isn't LP though.

[Inquartata]

Some people have bought the LP and altered it to fit their masks from other manufacturers. Swearing may be involved, I don't know.

[sabrefencer93]

I may do that.Considering that I have fenced with it a total of 3 times and everyone is playing "lets see who can scratch the lexan mask."

[Nolano]

Yeaaaah. That's why I didn't get one.

[bigdawg2121]

Buy an LP scratch shield. Use scissors to make sure it fits. Continue to be the "cool kid" at your club.

I may do that.Considering that I have fenced with it a total of 3 times and everyone is playing "lets see who can scratch the lexan mask."

[Soberin]

http://www.leonpaulusa.com/fencing/a...nfo_285PB.html

Second from the bottom on this page.

Use that at all times and you should be pretty much scratch-free.

-B

I do not agree at all. Visor masks scratch during fencing. No amount of care or special bags will prevent that. I have already replaced visors twice in 6 months.

[oiuyt]

I do not agree at all. Visor masks scratch during fencing. No amount of care or special bags will prevent that. I have already replaced visors twice in 6 months.

I direct you to post #5 in this thread for some clarification.

-B

[Soberin]

I direct you to post #5 in this thread for some clarification.

-B

But I already fence with two masks--I wear an extra-large mesh mask over the visor mask---it's a bit clumsy, but I get less scratches. Placing a bag over my head on top of the two masks might be the best option however.

[Purple Fencer]

Another thing....yes, mark your mask with your name with a marker pen....but do NOT do it on the lexan! The chemicals in the ink will craze the lexan and weaken it....seriously bad if it decided to fail.

You come to my table and there's marker pen ink on the lexan, it ain't passing.

Also, get in the habit FREQUENTLY of checking to make sure the screws that hold the lexan in place are tight. I had one come to me a couple of weeks back where all but ONE screw was significantly loose.

The plate's held in simply by the pressure of the screws on the frame...frame gets loose, plate can fall out.

[oiuyt]

Sam,

Have you actually seen someone who chose to write across the clear bit through which they intend it see while fencing?*

-B

* That idea is nearly as crazy as wearing a bag over the mask one is wearing over the lexan mask to protect it.

[Inquartata]

Can I mount a LP scatch guard over the lame bib of my mask, to keep it from wearing out?

[Purple Fencer]

Sam,

Have you actually seen someone who chose to write across the clear bit through which they intend it see while fencing?*

-B

* That idea is nearly as crazy as wearing a bag over the mask one is wearing over the lexan mask to protect it.

Perhaps....but better to give the advise than have someone do it out of ignorance.