How to Parry 4 (Quarte) in Sabre Fencing

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The quarte or parry 4 in fencing relies on quickness that cannot be achieved if your body's tense. Your parry should set you up to launch your own successful attack or to shift directions to gain an advantage during your match. Use the quarte when your opponent attacks your chest.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare for the attack. Stand with one foot before the other (this will depend on which hand you hold your sabre), and hold up your sabre, your elbow bent at about a 90 degree angle.
Step 2

Stay relaxed. You must be able to respond to the attack quickly. Close off the line to the opponent's target, in this case, your chest. Move your sabre across your body and to the left. This will force your opponent's blade to harmlessly pass you, and it should leave your opponent open to your own attack.
Step 3

Remember to start the fencing in the fingers. It's the fingers that subtly "turn the guard," as Sheridan describes, "to make the parry" (see Resources).