Pistol grip Grip (sport fencing)

pistol-grip on electric épée.

the pistol grip (otherwise known anatomical or orthopedic grip) developed nineteenth-century italian aristocrat, l. visconti, master of fencing, lived in belgium , had lost fingers in train accident, couldn t hold french grip properly. contours entirely 1 s hand , held pistol, hence name. grip has become popular among sports fencers in late twentieth century because of way enhances fencer s lateral strength parry (block) , complements agility , athleticism of competitors, though, critics allege, @ cost of blade sensitivity finesse. there several types of pistol grips, such basic visconti, german, , russian (any of people refer pistol grip), , american, providing firmer hold user of weapon. subtle variations in pistol grip may correspond loosely different fencing styles.

in high-level fencing, pistol grips universally preferred in foil, , used large percentage of épée fencers because allow stronger blade movements. substantial number of épéeists @ levels use french grips while posting (holding grip near pommel instead of guard) because of longer reach. posting unheard of in foil, decreases 1 s ability parry successfully, , increases opponent s chance of successful hit or remise.

types of pistol grips

(these names vary country)

visconti
belgian
russian
american
hungarian
german
zivkovic (american in-house produced model)
cetrulo**
gardere (hybrid between french , pistol grips)**
spanish**

** illegal in fie level competition