Epee Fencing: A Complete System

Rating:
Summary: Epee for the Epeeist
Review: One of the first things that attracted me to this book was the fact that it was an honest-to-goodness book about epee fencing. The majority of fencing books that I have read have put more emphasis on foil. Although it can be a little tough to slog through reading-wise (I had some problems, doesn't mean everyone will), Epee Fencing: A Complete System, is extraordinary in the amount of detail presented. A definite must for anyone who has a love for epee! I heartly recommend this book!

Rating:
Summary: Excellent new translation of a superlative book
Review: The first English edition of this book was marred by a worthy but literal translation. As a result it was turgid and difficult reading.

Stephan Khinoy has made an excellent new translation. The text flows freely, and is much more understandable. Given that this is the fundamental book on epee, this is to be commended.

This isn't to say that there aren't flaws in the book. Epee has moved on since the original publication, and some of the sections look a little old fashioned. This is mitigated by Khinoy's editorial interspersions which present the modern style. This slightly negative comment should not detract from the fact that this book is unrivalled in its treatement of the weapon, and should be read by all epeeists and their coaches.