by Cory Davison

Created on: May 04, 2009

There are four major types of grips in the world of fencing. These various grips include the Italian grip, the French grip, the Spanish grip, and the pistol grip. While they all have their differences, this article focuses solely on the dissimilarities of the former two.

ITALIAN GRIP

Design - The Italian grip is comprised of several adjoined parts, first of which is the handle. The handle is completely straight, and is generally composed of wood or aluminum. At the blade-end of the handle there is a crossbar, also known as the quillons. Two rings extend from the quillons up towards the guard.

Advantages - The Italian grip is advantageous in several ways. Firstly, the grip maintains a sense of ambidexterity; it is suitable for both right and left handed fencers. It also provides the fencer with an extensive amount of control, as the quillons provide excellent leverage. It also allows for greater power exertion, since the fencer's hand is located closer to the blade.

Disadvantages - It is possible to sprain and/or break your fingers if a disarming manoeuvre is performed (by the other fencer). This is caused by the impact of the rings on your fingers. The Italian grip is also a very rare grip, used mainly by traditionalist fencers. This makes it very difficult to find a well-made grip if you prefer the Italian style.

FRENCH GRIP

Design - The French grip is much simpler in design than the Italian grip. It is quite simply a handle, although dissimilar from the Italian grip, as it is contoured specifically to the shape of the hand. At the end of the handle furthest from the blade is a part called the pommel.

Advantages - The French grip has many advantages over the Italian grip. Firstly, the absence of quillons or rings allows the fencer to freely move his hand up or down the handle, resulting in increased maneuverability. The fencer also has the ability to "post", a technique where the fencer's hand moves down towards the pommel, allowing him to lengthen the range of his sword. The French grip is also one of the most common grips in use, along with the pistol grip, which makes it very easy to locate and purchase one.

Disadvantages - French grips do not possess the same amount of leverage as the Italian grip does. This results in much less power being transferred through the sword. Also, since the handle is contoured, the sword cannot be used ambidextrously. This means that you would have to be sure of the handedness of your grip before purchase.

As you can see, there are some differences between these two styles of grips.The one that you choose is entirely up to you, as both grips are allowed in tournaments. Popularity should have no impact on the purchase of your fencing grip. Rather, your choice should be made on the feel of the grip.

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