With Foil–the sport where a metal vest not covering the arms is worn–there is the concept of “right-of-way”. This determines point priority for the individual. In short, whoever begins an arm extension first has right-of-way. This can be difficult to gauge at the Olympic level due to the speed and quickness of the competitors who fence in such high-level events. Likewise with Sabre, which also has right-of-way, but is more of a slashing weapon. Sabre bouts progress much more quickly than Foil, partly because the mental game is different, and also because the method of scoring the point with the blade differs (Foil is scored with the tip, and Sabre is scored with the blade’s “edge”).

Epeé fencing, however, throws out right-of-way completely and makes the entire body target area without the use of a metal vest(lamé) or metal jacket. Points may also be simultaneously scored without worring about the aggressive action priority.

The three weapons also have much different mental and physical games. There’s different psychology in each.

Many people who aren’t fencers have difficulty following the action. Observers really need to understand the basic actions and especially the idea of right-of-way–and most important, have a trained eye to be able to distinguish what is happening. This is why it takes a skilled referee to be able to distinguish actions at a high-ranking or Olympic level.

I would encourage you to find a local salle (fencing hall) or club to visit and ask questions of the coaches and fencers. Lower-level competitors and casual fencers are often more easily followed for the novice observer. Also, it helps to have someone who is intimately familiar with the actions that occur to explain to the lay person what exactly is going on. It’s how all fencers learn at the beginning, by watching, asking questions, and trying the actions for themselves.

I’m not personally familiar with the availability of clubs that you might visit in London, but in America, you can search for a club in your area by visiting http://www.usfencing.org. Alternatively, you may find this list of clubs in Great Britain useful.
http://www.britishfencing.com/British_Fe ncing.asp?PageID=39

Also, a simple overview of the sport, as well as an explanation of right-of-way, may be found here:
http://www.usfencing.org/usfa/content/vi ew/1272/110/

I hope these things help with your understanding. As in any sport, understanding the rules and actions and WHY they occur is as important to enjoying the sport as much as actually competing in it.

Best,
Susan Hazel
South Carolina Division Secretary, USFA