Can I use my insulated foil/epee mask for sabre fencing?
No, you must use an electric sabre mask when fencing electric. An insulated mask will not register a touch to the head. You can, however, use the insulated mask for practice and non-electric bouting. My lame does not register a valid touch when the opponent hits me. If the entire lame does not register a valid touch, check to make sure the body cord clip is connected to the lame (this is normally the problem). Another possibility is that the lame is dead or has a “dead spot” (non-conductive area). Dead Spots are due to oxidation, corrosion, broken metal fibers, or tears in the fabric. Moistening them with water can repair high-resistance areas that are due to oxidation. As the moisture soaks up salts in the fabric, conductivity will increase. Sewing lame fabric over the dead area is another solution.
