The electric epée operates quite simply. From the handle socket, two small wires run up the length of the blade in a small groove to the tip assembly. The tip assembly is a small switch that is always in the off position. When the tip is depressed (when you score a touch against your opponents target area), the switch will momentarily be in the on position, allowing the touch to register.

This is an exploded view of the parts on the business end of your weapon

As you can see the tip of your weapon is made up of a lot of small parts.  Actually a lot smaller than shown here. The tip is subject to more abuse than the other parts of your weapon, thus most problems will occur there.

Here are a few things you can do before you fence.

1. Make sure the tip is not broken

2. Make sure the barrel is not loose. Try twisting it with your fingers to check.  If it is loose then it must be carefully tightened with a wrench, being careful not to break the wires inside.

3. Make sure the tip screws are not loose.  Should both screws fall out, the spring that rests under the tip (see photo above) will propel the tip off into the lost tip zone.  Sad, but true, I get very few lost tips back!  Use a small screwdriver to tighten them.  I have several at the workbench.                 

  

Screwdriver

4. Make sure the blade wire is not loose and protruding out of the groove.  It should be glued down securely.

Should any of these conditions exist, they could cost you points!

 

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