Some fencers compete actively in more than one weapon. However, it is difficult to become good at all three because of differences in techniques, tactics, and distance. We recommend that fencers choose a weapon to specialize in and only fence multiple weapons after a year or two of experience.

Traditionally, beginners start with the foil to learn a base of technique and tactics. Foil contains many elements which translate directly to the other weapons, and very few elements which do not translate at all. At the upper levels, foil fencing involves smooth footwork and tempo changes, and setting up sequences of actions.

Sabre is often easier for young children to learn because the technique is simpler -- three basic parries instead of four, and only three basic attacking actions -- and because the cutting action of the sabre is more intuitive to them than the thrust of a foil. Because a touch may be made with any part of the blade, sabre requires very good footwork to attack at the right time and avoid the attack. When fencing competitively, electric sabre requires very efficient and precise technique.

Epee is easier for beginners to understand tactically because there are no right-of-way rules; whoever hits first gets the point. However, beyond the beginner level, epee is very unforgiving of technique mistakes. A small technical mistake can provide the opponent with an opportunity to score.