The armourer — also called the weapons master or technician — is the technician and safety officer of fencing, responsible for the safety, compliance, and maintenance of equipment used in competitions and clubs.

Equipment control

The armourer validates weapons (foils, épées, sabres) for regulatory compliance regarding dimensions, weight, flexibility, tip pressure, and electrical function. Protective gear — masks, jackets, gloves, lamés, body wires — is reviewed against safety standards. Approved equipment receives control marks.

Technical support

The armourer repairs or replaces defective weapons, body wires, or scoring devices; advises referees on equipment disputes; and maintains the operational status of scoring boxes, reels, and cables.

Safety assurance

The armourer prevents use of unsafe equipment — broken blades, damaged masks — and verifies that electrical contact and resistance meet regulatory standards.

Club-level armoury

At the club level, the armourer maintains the equipment inventory and educates fencers on proper gear care and inspection.