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Step 1
Check the weapon's handedness. Most epees are specifically designed for right- or left-handed fencers. If you buy an epee for the wrong hand, you won't be able to wield it correctly.
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Step 2
Choose a grip. Epees utilize a number of different grips, including French grips, Italian grips and pistol-style grips. Each one provides different benefits and drawbacks. Test each to determine which will work best for you. French grips are usually considered the default.
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Step 3
Examine the wiring on the epee for defects. The wiring is used for scoring and they should be clean, properly insulated and unseen beneath the padding on the hilt. Twist the barrel to make sure that it is tight and does not move.
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Step 4
Study the way the epee blade is welded to the tang, which links it to the grip and guard. The weld should be solid and strong, not loose and rickety.
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Step 5
Look at the blade itself and make sure it doesn't have any black spots or other imperfections. You should be able to run your hand down the epee blade and feel its size taper off smoothly and regularly.
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Step 6
Place the tip of the blade on the ground, hilt up and press down with the flat of your hand. The blade should bend in a smooth, regular curve instead of just one particular spot (which usually indicates a flaw in the metal).
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Step 7
Get a list of requirements for the epee from the fencing association in your area. They may have additional specifics that your epees must meet to be legally used. They can also provide further guidelines for testing any blade that you wish to buy.
