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Masks - Fencing Masks should no longer be called “three weapon” or “foil” as a means of determining the strength of the piece. Modern masks must all pass a 12 kilo punch test as prescribed by the FIE before use in any competition, so the mesh must meet a minimum standard no matter what weapon it is intended for. There is, however, a significant difference in the puncture resistance of bibs, and ZWA recommends that you get the highest Newton rating your wallet will allow.
The steel mesh of masks comes in two levels. Carbon steel mesh is good stuff, meets the rules, and will dent if hit hard. It is relatively easy to push the dents back out.
The best mesh is heat-treated 300 series stainless. It is used in FIE homologated masks, and the ZWA models 2000 and 2001. Remember please that all fencing masks are designed for use in sport fencing,and no scientific study has ever been conducted to test their suitability in SCA or other historic combat. In fact, the loads put on a mask by schlager, musketeer, and other rapier blades could be significantly more than any fencing mask is designed to withstand, and ZWA consequently does not guarantee any mask put to this use. |