Sabre
السيف العربي
Sabre is the youngest and fastest of the three modern fencing weapons. Because the edge scores as well as the tip, sabre encourages constant forward pressure and explosive attacks. Reactions are measured in fractions of a second.
Rules at a Glance
Target area
Everything above the waist, including the head, arms and torso. The legs are off-target.
Scoring
Points can be scored with both the edge and the tip of the blade, the only weapon where cutting actions count. The electric scoring lamé jacket covers the entire target area.
Right of way
Sabre uses the right-of-way convention, similar to foil. But because the blade scores with cuts as well as thrusts, attacks are faster and priority changes hands rapidly.
Weapon spec
Maximum 500 grams. Blade up to 88 cm, total length up to 105 cm.
Playing style
Sabre is the most explosive fencing weapon, matches rarely last longer than a few seconds per exchange. It rewards speed, aggression, and the ability to read and break opponent rhythm.
History
Derived from the cavalry sabre of the 18th and 19th centuries, modern sporting sabre is the direct descendant of the sword carried by light-cavalry officers. It remains the most historically evocative of the three weapons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sabre in fencing?
Sabre is the youngest and fastest of the three modern fencing weapons. Because the edge scores as well as the tip, sabre encourages constant forward pressure and explosive attacks. Reactions are measured in fractions of a second.
What is the target area in Sabre?
Everything above the waist, including the head, arms and torso. The legs are off-target.
How is a point scored in Sabre?
Points can be scored with both the edge and the tip of the blade, the only weapon where cutting actions count. The electric scoring lamé jacket covers the entire target area.
Does Sabre use right of way?
Sabre uses the right-of-way convention, similar to foil. But because the blade scores with cuts as well as thrusts, attacks are faster and priority changes hands rapidly.
How heavy is a Sabre weapon?
Maximum 500 grams. Blade up to 88 cm, total length up to 105 cm.