What is the difference between cheap fencing sabres and expensive fencing sabres?

All sabers used in competition must conform to the S2000 standard, but within that spectrum there is wide variance on the quality (or perceived quality of the blade). For example, blades JL blades are made in China are considerably less expensive than blades made in France (Prier). While the Chinese products may not necessarily be inferior to their French counterparts, the perception is that these blades tend to be break or set easily.





Further, some blades are labeled %26quot;FIE Maraging%26quot; means that the blade is made of maraging steel. Maraging steel is a special maraging steel that has increased toughness and flexibility to ordinary steels. International (FIE) competition requires the used of maraging blades in foil and epee events (but NOT in saber events). These blades will generally last longer than their non-maraging counterparts, but the cost is that much more.





Further cost differences may come from better (name brand) sockets, leather pads (not plastic), better grips (leather, or rubber over metal), lighter (or heavier guards), or further upgrades.





As a beginning saberist, a cheap fencing saber is perfectly acceptable, since you WILL break blades in the beginning. It%26#039;s considerably easier on the pocket book if you break a $20 blade rather than a $150 blade.