How To Wire An Epee Blade

doteasy.com - free web hosting. Free hosting with no banners.

Before you begin

Make sure that all your parts are clean. If you are using new parts, it is usually safe to assume that they are. If you have previously used parts, you should clean them. Use a cotton tip swab, and some isopropyl rubbing alcohol (surgical spirits for those of you in the UK:) preferably 91% or 92%.  Don't forget to clean the threads on the foible and the 'other' end of the barrel too.

You will also need a device for bending your blade. A doorway can do in a pinch, but you can make a professional bender on the cheap. As a third option, click here to buy one from my online catalog.

Step #1

  • Carefully unwind your wire making sure that there aren't any kinks in it.
  • Insert the wire through the barrel. Pull it through until the cup is near the barrel.

  • Step #2

  • Apply a small amount of thread locker to the foible threads (don't forget to shake it up first).
  • Lay some of the wire in the groove of the foible.
  • Thread the barrel onto the foible being careful no to cross the threads or catch the wire.
  • Tighten the barrel thoroughly but don't over do it as you could crack the barrel or ruin the threads.

  • Step #3

  • To set the wire's cup into the barrel, gently tug on the long end of the wire while applying moderate pressure to the cup with your point setter. If you don't have a point setter, any "tool" that can fit in the barrel will do (even a swab with the cotton removed).  A point setter is recommended, however.  I makes the process easier, especially for beginners.
  • When you're sure that you have it set correctly, lay the wire into the groove completely.
  • Wrap the end of the wire around the tang and secure it with tape.
  • Put the blade in your bender (only a slight bend is necessary) making sure that your wire doesn't come out of the groove in the process.

  • Step #4

  • Apply a reasonable coat of glue (not too much, not too little). The amount you need depends on the type of glue you use.  Be very careful to avoid glue seeping into the barrel or onto the tang.
  • When the glue is dry, remove the blade from the bender.
  • Remove any excess glue.

  • Step #5

  • Test the wire with a continuity tester before further assembly.
  • If it checks out okay, assemble the point and recheck.

  • That's it, you're done!


    Click hereto learn how to finish assembling your epee.

    Did you find this information useful? How much was it worth to you? Think it over and send me a tip.

    Return To The Learning Center
     www.armorerx.com

    doteasy.com - free web hosting. Free hosting with no banners.