The foil has a flexible blade, approximately 35 inches long, weighing less than one pound. Points (touches) are scored with the tip of the blade. The valid target area is the torso (front and back). The fencer wears a metallic vest (lame') to indicate valid touches.

The epee (pronounced "EPP-pay"), is similar to the foil in length and points are scored with the tip of the blade. It is heavier than the foil, weighing about 27 ounces, has a larger guard (to protect the hand from a valid hit) and has a stiffer blade. The entire body (head to toe) is the valid target area.

The sabre is the modern version of a cavalry sword, and is similar in weight to the foil. The major difference is in the use of the blade. The sabre is a cutting as well as a thrusting weapon. The target area is from the waist to the top of the head including the arms. Like foil the sabre fencer wears a metallic vest (lame') to indicate valid touches.