Fencing weapons come in three types, each with its own target area and scoring rules.

The longer version

The three weapons differ in blade shape, in how a touch is scored, and in which part of the body counts. One allows hits only with the point and only on the trunk; a second allows point and edge anywhere above the hips; the third restricts the target to the upper body and applies a convention about who holds the right of way.

That convention exists because two fencers can land together, and without a rule about who attacked first, judging would be impossible. Electrical scoring removed much of the ambiguity by registering contact, yet the convention still decides which of two lights counts. The weapons also descend from duelling swords of different weights, which is why grips and guards are not interchangeable.

Where this entry sits

Facts here look at the rules, equipment and odd histories behind familiar sports and games, from balls and rackets to cards, boards and playing fields. Expect small details about scoring quirks, stadium design and the long story of the Olympic Games. The full list sits on the Sports and Games page, where every entry is listed in order.