Innovations and Inventions in Fencing

INNOVATIONS AND INVENTIONS IN FENCING George and Shalva Kokochashvili, Tbilisi, Georgia, 2014

This book was written by George and Shalva Kokochashvili, twin brothers from Tbilisi Georgia (a European country). Both authors are civil engineers and share the same hobby: inventions. They hold sixteen Georgian and Soviet Union patents for inventions in sport, medicine (surgery, plastic surgery, burn, water therapy) and engineering. They have been engaged in fencing since 1972 till present and, so far, they have designed and tested dozens of fencing handles.

This work is a compilation of various pieces of information and contains a wealth of graphical material (some of which is being published for the first time), on fencing history, fencing weapons, fencing for disabled people, Georgian and other historical fencing; a description and explanation of existing fencing equipment and its evolution and innovation up to the present; fencing training devices; various worldwide inventions, including devices by the Kokochashvili brothers (specifically, new fencing handle designs and several training devices that can be used not only by fencers but in other kind of sport and by disabled or blind people; fencing equipment suppliers and other interesting and unusual information about famous people engaged in fencing, and much more besides.

This book is dedicated to all those who enjoy fencing and inventions.

George (left) and Shalva (right) Kokochashvili

ISBN 978-9941-0-5338-2. Copyright Š2014 by George Kokochashvili, Shalva Kokochashvili

Contents Authors’ introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 3 Acknowledgement ...................................................................................................................................................... 5 Foreword ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Short history of fencing ............................................................................................................................................ 8 Fencing weapons ..................................................................................................................................................... 12 Foil ................................................................................................................................................................................ 15 Epee ............................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Sabre ............................................................................................................................................................................. 22 The fencing accessories ............................................................................................................................................ 29 Fencing shoes ............................................................................................................................................................ 35 Mask .............................................................................................................................................................................. 39 Modern fencing equipment’s terminology ..................................................................................................... 50 Pist/Strip .................................................................................................................................................................... 53 Point (tip) or Point d ‘Arret .................................................................................................................................. 55 Scoring of points ...................................................................................................................................................... 60 Tournaments ............................................................................................................................................................. 67 Fencing as a therapy .............................................................................................................................................. 69 Fencing injuries ........................................................................................................................................................ 71 Wheelchair Fencing ................................................................................................................................................ 74 Fencing for blind ...................................................................................................................................................... 77 Fencing on bayonet ................................................................................................................................................. 80 Singlestick .................................................................................................................................................................. 82 Khevsuretian Dashna (Epee) ............................................................................................................................... 83 A short chronological history development of fencing sport ................................................................... 87 Fencing Grip............................................................................................................................................................... 95 List of handles of existing fencing weapons .................................................................................................110 Classic/traditional Grips ....................................................................................................................................112 Additional support to hold the grip. ...............................................................................................................117 Pistol Grips ...............................................................................................................................................................118 Handle inventions, patents ................................................................................................................................126 Innovative Kokochashvilis’ Fencing Handles ..............................................................................................129 Kokochashvilis’ Handles - KT (Transforming) ............................................................................................134 Kokochashvilis’ Handles - K ...............................................................................................................................135 1

Kokochashvilis’ Handles - KG (with small guard under the lower part) ...........................................136 Make your own design of the handle ..............................................................................................................140 Training devices for fencers ..............................................................................................................................141 Kokochashvilis’ Training device for fencers.................................................................................................148 Training device for coordination movement of fencers ..........................................................................153 Kokochashvilis’ training device for sportsmen of sports games ..........................................................154 Supplement ..............................................................................................................................................................158 The different design of fencing weapon handles .......................................................................................159 Guinness World Records in Fencing...................................................................................................................169 Fencing equipment suppliers ................................................................................................................................172 Interesting and Funny staff ...............................................................................................................................175 Some fact about the fencing ...............................................................................................................................175 Finger Jousting .......................................................................................................................................................175 Fencing with toy balloons ...................................................................................................................................176 Fencing - computer games .................................................................................................................................176 Smart ideas ................................................................................................................................................................178 Funny people.............................................................................................................................................................179 Fencing quotes ........................................................................................................................................................182 Vintage pictures on Fencing ..............................................................................................................................183 Famous people and fencing ...............................................................................................................................190 An annotated list of selected reference names and titles .......................................................................197 Sources of Information used in the book ...........................................................................................................205 Names of patents used for book .......................................................................................................................207 Short references and what people/experts are saying about the book “Innovations and Inventions in Fencing” by George and Shalva Kokochashvili ...............................................................................................209 Additional literature and sources used for the book ................................................................................212

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There would have been no enjoyment in fencing and inventions if our families hadn’t completely backed us. This work truly relates what can happen given a little luck and supportive family. We dedicate this book to memory of our beloved mother Mrs. Nelli Nishnianidze and father Mr. Otar Kokochashvili, big funs of sport and inventions, without whom we cannot fence or invent …

George and Shalva Kokochashvili

Authors’ introduction Please allow us to introduce ourselves: we George and Shalva Kokochashvili twin brothers from Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia (a European country). We are both civil engineers and our hobby is inventions. We both hold sixteen Georgian and Soviet Union patents for inventions in sport, medicine and engineering. We began to train in fencing in 1972, and have continued this down to the present.

In sport we have following inventions and patents, which can be used by fencers and others: 1. Kokochashvilis’ Training Device for Fencers (# 432, # 1397049, 1988).

2. Kokochashvilis’ Handle for cold weapon. (# 431, # 1572664, 1990).

3. Kokochashvilis’ Handle for Fencing Weapon (# 444, #1466767, 1989) 4. Kokochashvilis’ Handle-2 for Fencing Weapon (# 433, # 1734800, 1992).

5. Kokochashvilis’ Training Device for Sportsman of Sports Games (# 443, # 1535553, 1990).

We have ourselves made and tested a dozen designs of fencing handles that gave quite positive results. For a long time now we have been trying to realize (produce and commercialize) our inventions, but this is more difficult than coming up with new inventions.

The aim of the present book is to identify and describe similar or different issues and topics in fencing sport and its equipment. We fully realize that each idea or invention needs testing, approval, and so on. We have decided that publication may attract some attention and interest: ‘better late, than never,’ as the saying goes. Our book/handles and other patented inventions (samples and also the printed materials) are presented, distributed and introduced worldwide to such organizations as FEI, IOC, Georgian Fencing Federation and Sport Committee, also to other international countries fencing federations and fencing clubs, fencers, coaches, etc. Meanwhile it is understandable that, without official permission from the Fedération International d’Escrime (FIE), it is not allowed to use new fencing handles at official competitions.

During the many years of engaging in fencing, we have checked most of the information available from different sources in a number of languages (including English, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Georgian, Russian, German, etc.). We have found that each author has his own vision, ideas and so on. In some sources different dates were shown, or different explanations, rules, and so on, given while referring to the same materials historically, to legislation, rules and the like. For this reason, the present authors decided that, for greater accuracy, only the latest available updates

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to the rules and regulations of official bodies, for example, the FIE or other organizations or federations, would be used.

Gathering information on fencing is a huge and never ending task and it was also our big wish to have such information in one book. Our aim here is to provide general information about this beautiful sport not only for fencers, but also for other readers, to learn something about fencing and the evolution of fencing equipment. For us the main purpose was to connect somehow our fencing inventions (fencing handles and training devices) to existing inventions in fencing and, at the same time, to show the development of fencing through innovation and inventions.

Authors would like to underline that the process of inventing various fencing (and also nonfencing) devices was not connected with the modern internet, (during these past times there was no such technologies widely developed in our places) and all what was done, was done not so fast and so easy, as it’s in present times Some Internet articles do not mention the names of their authors, and for this reason we give only the title and web address. We have included in a supplement some interesting information about fencing weapons, companies, dealers in fencing equipment and etc.

Indeed, there are also other sources of the information, which can be updated at any time. You are welcome to provide any additional information to the authors.

We would like to thank everybody who has written even the briefest of items on the popularization of fencing as the beautiful art of fighting with swords.

Especially we are grateful to one of the world’s great geniuses, Thomas Alva Edison, for his great inventions and quotes.

We also thank each and every one who will be interested in seeing our work.

Big fans of fencing and innovations, we dedicate this work to all those people who enjoy fencing and inventions. We hope that it will inform and inspire a new generation of young athletes and that this work will increase the number of the fencing fans worldwide.

Very sincerely yours, Mr. George Kokochashvili Mr. Shalva Kokochashvili Masters of Sport in fencing Inventors-Engineers E-mail: gkokochashvili@yahoo.co.uk gkokochashvili@gmail.com skokochashvili@gmail.com Tbilisi, Georgia (country in Europe), 2014 P.S. Works which was published by George and Shalva Kokochashvili. (Fig. 1) 4

„The mirracle Queen“, The first biographical book about the British band “Queen” which was published in USSR on a Georgian language, 1991.

The first Georgian musical magzine, SIMI”, 1992

Fig. 1 George and Shalva’s hobby - inventions, which are protected by 16 Georgian and SU patents in sport (fencing, different kind of sport gems); medicine: surgery, plastic eyelids surgery, burn; water therapy - new design of bath tubs; engineering.(Fig. 2)

Georgian and SU patent certificates with some samples.

Fig. 2 Acknowledgement We would like to thank the many people who contributed to the preparation of this book, friends, who have given positive suggestions and providing additional information and pictures, to Maestro Giancarlo Toran (Director, Agora fencing Museum in Busto Arsizio, Italy); Ennio Diano (Italy); Mr. President of “Associazione Scherma Pro Vercelli A.S.D.” Dottor Italo Monetti; Riccardo Vitale,”Maison Gajardoni" (Italy); Adalberto Tassinari (Italy); Stephen Anthony Fisher (USA); Richard Cohen, fencer, writer (Great Britain).

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Necessity is the mother of invention.

Plato –Greek philosopher

Foreword December, 2015 I have the honor to present this foreword to the Georgian engineers and inventors, and sword fencing Masters of Sport Mr. George Kokochashvili and Mr. Shalva Kokochashvili for their work "Innovations and Inventions in Fencing" (Georgia, Tbilisi, 2014).

The presented work authors George and Shalva Kokochashvili are the authors of many inventions and projects in different fields (sport, medicine, engineering, and others) with over 30 years’ experience, and involved in fencing more than 40 years as winners and other prize holders at many international and national championships, the national fencing team members. Twin brothers Kokochashvili with their seniority and experience are describing with highly professionally subjects related to fencing - one of the oldest and most beautiful sport; fencing’s world history and related inventions, without which it is impossible to have the progress. All this contributes to not only the sport, but also for the development of other fields, which are needed as sports results, as well as educational activities, culture and health behaviors and development.

The presented work "Innovations and Inventions in Fencing" is such first book where there are collected in such form the large amount of technical and historical materials from the multilingual ancient and modern sources. In a very interesting way here are presented the fencing tools varieties and the latest invented items including the authors’ George and Shalva Kokochashvili’s inventions (which are protected by the Georgian and SU Patents), new fencing weapon handles and training equipment for the first time it’s compared with the ancient and modern worldwide inventions, such as Italian, French, Belgian and others. Brother Kokochashvili’s sport innovations are not only desirable and necessary for only fencing, but they can be used in other fields too, which is given in this work. Also these devices can be used for disable people during their training and sport activities. Mr. George and Mr. Shalva Kokochashvili work "Innovations and Inventions in Fencing" pays attention to the historical Georgian ancient Fencing weapons, which is useful to the interested persons of all ages around the world, and which is undoubtedly a glorious thing for our country.

Mr. George and Mr. Shalva Kokochashvili’s fencing weapon handles have been promoted many years on various levels (tournaments, publications, samples, etc.). These devices have been applied to the relevant agencies in many countries, federations. The samples have been exhibited in numerous exhibitions and used in fencing competitions at various levels and also sent for testing in fencing centers of various countries.

Once again I want to stress that I consider a great honor to have the opportunity to make a reference for such kind of start of the work, and I wish to the Georgian inventors and fencers George and Shalva Kokochashvili great success with their projects, boundless stamina and health in the implementation of their noble deeds.

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With great respect, Mr. Jumber Lezhava Director of the Jumber Lezhava International Foundation, Guinness World Record Multiple Holder in Press-Ups UNESCO World Sportsman of the citizen Honorary Citizen of various countries and the cities King Vakhtang Gorgasali First Degree Order holder The State Prize Laureate Knight of the many medals and awards Sports Honored Worker Engineer, inventor, writer and traveler Professor, Honorary Academician "The Man of Georgia 2002" and "Man of the World 2009" Nominated in the book “Great Minds of 21st century (American Biographical Institute, USA, 2013) Honorable participant of the Olympic Games / Guest (Atlanta 1996, Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, London 2012), Etc.

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I am proud of the fact that I never invent weapon to kill.

Thomas A. Edison(Most famous American Inventor who, singly or jointly, held a world record 1.093 patents. In addition, he created the World’s first industrial research laboratory, 1847-1931)

Short history of fencing Art of fencing has been practised for thousands of years, and modern day fencing began as a form of sport. The movement is so fast the touches are scored electrically. The modern sport of fencing differs from these movie duels, just as any martial art differs from stage combat, but the techniques are all the same. Fencing weapons have been used for centuries as personal weapons and they have been in every age…Especially due to fencing the great novel of Alexandre Dumas “Three Musketeers” 1 which first serialized in 1844, in the 19th century, both the author and art of fighting with swords became so popular among all people any ages worldwide...

Alexandre Dumas spent two month and seven days there, in Tbilisi, Georgia. He was so overwhelmed with impressions that he began to write his book “Le Caucase” (“Caucasus”) before leaving for France. He describes the nature, traditions, sights, Tbilisi, the Georgian cuisine virtuosic ally, with great love for his host city… He is inspired by the theater and baths in Tbilisi. Dumas enthusiastically collected Georgian ormaments, clothes, ethnographic materials. During his visit, he was living in the house of the Georgian philanthropist Jakob Zubalashvili. Dumas left the city on 11 January, 1859 2 .

Family of Zubalashvili is the relative to Kokochashvili family in Georgia and Mrs. Anastasia Zubalashvili our granny and very kindest person, who had a lot of memory about her famous relatives hosting in Georgia the great Alexandre Dumas.

It’s obvious that most readers of this novel wanted to become one of musketeer and to know fencing well, which has quite a long history.

The human being has always tried to invent weapons to defend himself against the nature and other human beings, and this since Cain: he used his strength, resorted to his material, improved his dexterity and used his intelligence. The history of fencing gives a marvelous account of all that 3.

The earliest depiction of swordplay is a relief (Fig.3) in the temple of Medīnat Habu, near Luxor in Egypt, built by Ramses III about 1190 B.Sc. depicts a sporting competition organized by the Pharaoh to celebrate his victory over the Libyans. The weapons - certainly sticks with bronze plates in the end - are buttoned. Hands are protected by a guard similar to that of sabre, and some of the fencers have the face protected by a mask, whose chin rolling pad, covering both ears, is attached to the wig. The non-sword arm is used for parrying blows and is protected by a kind of shield. 4 One can identify a jury presiding over the tournament.

The translation of hieroglyphs teaches us that the opponents shouted at each other “On guard … and admire what my valiant hand is going to make!”, and that spectators did not spare encouragements for their favorites: “Go! O excellent fighter!” The winner salutes with his weapon 8

I never did a day’s work in my life. It was all fun.

Thomas A. Edison

Fencing weapons The end of the XIX th century seals the evolution of the trinity of weapons - epee, sabre and foil.

If fencing became a sport, it is partially thanks to epee. It is around 1890 begin to speak about fencing as a sport The Fencing weapon can be divided in three category, Classical, Historical and Traditional system school 10.

Classical Fencing

Foil ― French School

Fig. 6

The classical French school of foil (Fig. 6) derives from the theory of small-sword fencing. All actions are executed with a minimum of force, relying on exact positioning of the body and placement of the blade. All of the fingers rest upon the almost straight grip of the foil, which is manipulated via the use of the fingers aided by a supple wrist.

Foil ― Italian School

Fig. 7

These schools can be divided into northern and southern (Fig.7). The southern schools tend to be very aggressive in nature, while the northern schools are influenced in part by French theory and practice. The northern schools are more forceful than the French school, but a bit more subdued in their character than the southern schools. Their guard positions emphasize a lower, wider stance, with the weapon arm held nearly fully extended and parries taken well in front. Firm blade actions are assisted by the Italian grip, which provides a powerful fulcrum, particularly when aided by the wrist strap.

Dueling Sword ― French School

Fig. 8

The dueling sword (Fig.8) had adopted a larger cup-shaped guard although still mounted with a triangular cross-section blade. The dueling sword (Epee) taught is the traditional French school.

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“Figure 8” guard foils A – Iron mounting “figure 8” guard, corded handle; B – Special “club” foil.

C – Ladies foil The Spalding Special Detachable foil Bell guard foil A – Nickel-plated bell guard, leather covered handle.

B –Reinforced nickel-plated bell guard and high polished, leather covered handle.

C –Ladies foil. Small bell guard with nickel-plated and polished; Leather covered handle.

Spalding, special Italian Pattern foil

Rubber foil button.

Fig. 24

Fig. 25

Different guard design of the French foil (Fig. 25)

Foils of 19th-20th century 17 (Fig.26)

Neapolitan foil, Italy. Early or mid-19th century

Foil for “Gioco Misto”. Straight cord covered handle, brass pommel, Italy, Mid-19th century Classic French foil. Guard with rings formed “number eight”, France Late 19th-early 20th century.

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Italian foil. Late 19th- early 20th century.

Fig. 26

Epee Epee, is intended to simulate the conditions of a duel as closely as possible - the target here is any part of the body. Epee fencing was developed in Paris in the 1860s. Most epee tournaments before Second World War were fenced in the open air on gravel path, with bouts initially for just one hit.

Epee - Directly descended from neo-Latin terms, in use in various countries, chiefly Spain, Italy and France, for the straight thrusting weapon: espada, espé, espée, épée. A European form of a long thrusting weapon (from centuries previous) bore the similar name of Estoc.

The English term épée is derived from the French éspée (which was close to the Italian spada and Spanish espada). As the Italian dueling sword looked like the Neapolitan foil which offered little protection for the back of the weapon hand, the Greco brothers (Agesilao and Aurelio) designed an épée with a large, offset bell guard that shields the entire hand and with a crossbar that extends inside the bell guard from one side to the other. This new dueling sword became the modern Italian épée 18. This happened in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Maestro Aurelio had a treatise on this new epee published in 1907 19.

Target area for Epee

Schematic elements for the Epee

Fig. 27 In epee the weapon used is a maximum of 770 grams, with a maximum length of 110cm. Epee had a large ‘cereal bowl’ guard. The valid target area is the whole body, head to toe, including arms and hands. Any hit upon the earthed piste or on the opponent's grounded weapon will not cause the apparatus to register. The basic rule of engagement is that the first to hit his or her opponent has scored (Fig.27). Below shown some designs of the epee (Fig. 28).

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There is quite interesting issue that acting fencers are developing fencing equipment’s, like as Pavel Kolobkov (Russian, epee fences) has developed Kolobkov Pro epee blades, together with help of Leon Paul, mentioning by Craig Harkins in 2007 20.

Italian epee, 1885 21 - Giordano Rossi.

French epee for duels, France Mid. 19th century.

Epee for electrical system fencing, France.

1930-1940.

Different design of the guards for epee N.T. Poddobri (1940).

Epee “da terreno”, Italy. Early 20th century.

Fig. 28

Fig. 29

Fig. 30

Semyon Kolchinski with his idea, long epee 19

Very interesting design of Rapier had late 16 century, whose unique functioning is that, it expands an additional 9 inches in length from 48 inches to 57 inches. This done by pressing a locking button and pulling back on the hand. 22 (Fig. 29) Such similar ideas was used for training method by the Honored coach of the USSR and Ukraine, Semyon Kolchinski.

He had special ordered epee, twice as long as convention blade, which was used to prepare for the Olympic Games Grigory Kriss in Tokyo on 1964. This was helping Kriss to imitate fencing with long hand

blade 23.

fencers 24. (Fig. 30)

Fig. 31

The World Championship, Epee, Budapest, (Hungary) August, 1959. Left – Piero Tassinari (Italy), right Guram Kostava (Georgia, Two-fold World Champion in team competition - 1961, 1967) (Fig. 31).

Very interesting story had above mentionded picture. The authors of this book and good friend of Guram Kostava, shared this picture on a Facebook and on 16,17 February, 2014 and soon we have received comments from Guram’s and Piero’s childrens Nino Kostava and Dago Tassinari: “my father” With help of this comments we have introduced it to Dago Tassinari and he provided a picture of his father. Gurami was very happy to see the old friend and agreed to take a picture, dated March 04, 2015. (Fig. 32)

Fig. 32

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Later, Stephen Anthony Fisher 25 , shared the picture, of the medal for the memorial of Cory Stauble. Cory Stauble was a foil fencer in the state of Kentucky who was killed. On July, 9, 2002, by a drunk driver while in high school. Every year there is a memorial tournament in his honor.

The medals happen to feature Kostava and Tassinari fencing unusual moment. The tournament has conducted at the Louisville Fencing Center. The medal was specially made by Crown Trophy in Louisville, KY. The image was found from Stephen Anthony Fisher, collections, copy of Antonio Spallino book “Una frase d'armi�, (1997) where was used copy of above mentioned picture.

This information was very interesting for authors and we have decided to show this to Guram Kostava; We have took a picture with Guram and shared again on the Facebook, on May 5, 2015.

On the same day, on the Facebook this picture got too many likes, but more interesting comments was made by Stephen Anthony Fisher and Dago Tassinari. (Fig. 33).

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Fig. 33 Authors of this book, have a hope that this little page-story about great fencers will be some of the interest for you, the readers, as the other technical and innovative information which is brought in the rest of the pages, for you – our dear readers.

Sabre Sabre, also spelled “saber”, heavy military sword with a long cutting edge and, often, a curved blade. Most commonly a cavalry weapon, the sabre was derived from a Hungarian cavalry sword introduced from the Orient in the 18th century; Therefore in the late 19th century an Italian fencing master, Giuseppe Radaelli, developed a lightweight fencing sabre that could be manipulated with the speed and accuracy of a foil. By the early 1900s, Italian master had introduced the principle of this new weapon to all fencing countries. The military sabre had been relegated to a ceremonial role by the 20th century, while the fencing sabre had become one of the sport’s standard weapons. Italo Santelli was an Italian fencer who is considered to be the "father of modern sabre fencing 26.

Sabre, probably derived from the Egyptian through the Assyrian Sibirru and Akkadian Sibir. Our 'Sabre' comes almost directly from the Arabic Sayf. Some linguists trace Sabre from the Armoric Sabren, or from the Spanish Sable, or from the Italian Sciabola, Sciabla, or from the German Säbel.

During the second part of 19th century, Italian master of fencing Giuseppe Radaelli 27 offered model of rather easy slightly curved sabre from the closed proud. Guard had a handle for protection of fingers which connected to a counterbalance on the sabre handle. In addition, to a metal from two parties the metal bars bent by a semicircle fastened.

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Fig. 34 Thus, additional protection of a hand against blows was carried out. It is accepted to call sabres of this design Radaelli's name (Fig.34). Having passed a way from heavy sabre military colleges to elegant models from masters of fencing, in the 20th century the sports sabre found a thin direct blade and unpretentious to a metal.

Below please see different designs of sabres Fig. 35

Antique German Schlager Dueling Swords.

Late 19th - early 20th century. 28 The blade and hilt of the Alfred “Hutton” sabre imitate the style of the true military sabre to provide a more realistic military training sword.. The blade is somewhat shortened and lightened, with a rounded tip for effective training, and exhibits a somewhat greater flexibility than the live military sword. 19th century. 29 Italian fencing goods provided by Spalding catalogue, 30 1906 year.

A – Radaelli model B – Massiello model C – Barbasetti model

Gymnasia swords, 31 1900.

Sabre “Pecoraro-Pessina,” 1910, Italy, 20th century.

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1760, according to Diderot and D'Alembert's "Encyclopedia": 1 - rapier, 2 - glove, 3 - bib, 4 sandal, 5 - mask, 6 - stick with the handle. 45

Don Simon de Frias, master of all weapons examined, New Spain. Mexico. 1809. 46

Plastron (1884). 47

Fencing plastron for protection of chest.

(1891).

A

B

C

Fencing Plastrons: A – Covering chect right side; B – Covering chest right and left side; C – For women.

(1901).

Fencing jacket, brown canvas, with collar.

Buttons cuffs, collar and left side (1906).

Fencing jackets: women’s, mans, half jacket, (1939).

Short sleeve fencing jacket, Italy. Late 19th century. According to Agora Museum. 48

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Fig. 44 According to Jonathan Carr, “The Victorian Fencing Outfit,” 2014, Trousers or pantaloons were worn by men, the color of jacket and pants generally being white or black, though this was not a rule. Pants worn followed the fashion of the time. Knee Breeches or knickers were commonly worn by men in the 18th century. Full length trousers came in to fashion in the early 19th century as part of everyday wardrobe for men, and this is often part of the fencing costume of the period Knee breeches remained associated with sporting activities such as horseback riding, golf and fencing.

According to Castellote’s Handbook of Fencing in 1882, mentioned: “That a leather thigh-pad is also a necessary precaution, especially when your opponent’s play is unknown to you, and you have to run the risk of its being violent or irregular”. 59 Many period images show a wide belt being worn. According to the Squires 1890 Catalogue of Sportsman Supplies out of New York, the fencing belt was made of red leather, three inches wide, fancy-stitched, and kid-lined. The catalogue also notes that the belt “gives strength and staying power.”

The fencing rules of the amateur Athletic Union of the United States published in the Spalding Athletic Guide of 1891 that in foil contests a fencing belt not exceeding four inches in width should be worn. The belt delineates the lower part of the target area in many rules. (Fig. 45).

Nineteenth Century fencer with belt. 60

Sir Richard Barton with red belt. 62

Fencing belt 61 1872.

Fencing belt 63, 1893.

Fig. 45 33

French classical dress.

Below is shown some design of fencing dress from the different period. The painting “The Fencer”, 1895 by American painter Garry Melchers (1860-1932), gallery label states that the man in the portrait may be a French Fencing master named M. Louis Fonrobert (Fig, 46). Louis Rondelle, Maitre D’Armes at the Boston Athletic Association and the Harvard University Fencing club 1892 (Fig. 47). 64

Fig. 47.

Fig. 46.

In modern fencing, for protection fencers are equipped with special materials for fencing dress and mask (Fig. 48).

Fig.48

The clothing which is worn in modern fencing is made of tough cotton or nylon. Kevlar was added to top level uniform pieces (jacket, breeches, underarm protector, lamé, and the bib of the mask) following the Vladimir Smirnov incident at the July 18, 1982 World Championships in Rome.

Smirnov's accident was the driving force behind the significant improvement of safety gear in fencing. Maraging steel blades (instead of the carbon steel ones of the day), kevlar (or other ballistic nylon) in the uniforms, and masks two to three times stronger than the one he wore, and other safety rules, all came about because of his death.

In the sport of fencing, blades used in competitions run under the auspices of the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime are usually made with maraging steel. Maraging blades are superior for foil and epee because crack propagation in maraging steel is 10 times slower than in carbon steel, resulting in less blade breakage and fewer injuries. Stainless maraging steel is used also in bicycle frames and golf club heads. It is also used in surgical components and hypodermic syringes, but is not suitable for scalpel blades because the lack of carbon prevents it from holding a good cutting edge 65.

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The shoes offer extra support to the inside of the sole (optional). The design of the fencing shoes is different from other kind of sport, with quite interesting designs. For example: in 19th century, the shoes/sandals were made by leather for the ‘uppers’ and of stout buff for the soles. The sole of the right shoe is frequently made with a padded flap to protect the toes from inconvenience in the fall of the foot; this addition to the shoe is not, however, of necessity.

According to Viguier’s Vocabulaire D’Escrime, 1910, appels were also used in a lesson to ensure that a pupil had good balance. During a bout they served to accentuate feints and false attacks as well as distracting the opponent. They were used to intimidate and undermine, making it possible to gain distance and execute compound hits.

That was the theory. In practice, the flap gradually shortened during the 19th century so that by the turn of the 20th century it barely projected more than a quarter of an inch yet was recognizably different from the shoe worn on the other foot 68.

For example below are provided fencing shoes: Fencing shoes 69 (1906 year); Spalding shoes (1920) 70 ; according to N. T. Poddobri (1940); modern fencing shoes, for example - Adidas D’Artagnan III (Fig. 51).

19c Fencing Sandals

Fencing sleepers, leather, with rough leather soles to prevent slipping, per pair.1890

Fencing sandals 1836 71

1906

Sandals 1872

1920.

36

1882 72

Fencing sandals 1886

1940

1970-1980 (rubber –textile material)

Adidas 19701980

Nike Air Fencing Shoe, AKA the Nike Ballestra, 2008

Adidas D’Artagnian.

Modern shoes 2010

Asics Onitsuka Fencing Shoes 73 Fig. 51 In the article “The historical Development of fencing kit”, 74 by Jane Malcolm-Davies mentioned that on 1670, Philibert De La Touche’s, the French fencing teachers, fencers had flat shoes with a flap of leather projecting beyond his toes.

Below is shown 1948 Summer Olympic games in London (GB), fencing between Jehan Buhan (France) on right, winner of the individual foil, against John Emrys Lloyd (GB), who placed fourth. 75 (Fig. 51 a). From this picture quite clear is shown, that Emrys Lloyd wearing a shoe with vestiges of the extra flap.

Fig. 51 a Some old period pictures with above mentioned design of the fencing shoes, shown below. (Fig. 51 b)

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Belgium Fencer Fernand De Smedt (1897) 76

Marquis De Chasseloup-Laubat (1902), 77 President of the French Fencing Federation (1911-1920).

Fig. 51 b According to the Nike, 2008 research 78 about fencing shoes, was found the following: • Fencing has among the highest force applied to heel of lead foot in all sports. Up to 7x body weight. Close to the level of impact of a big man (like Shaq) after a dunk!

• The trailing foot takes a lot of damage.

• The lunge impacts the foot at an extreme angle: up to 45 degrees • Fencers spend a lot of time on their forefoot when in preparation This means that the shoes need to have: • Good heel cushioning set at an angle to the heel strike of the lunge • Flexible uppers and sole to be comfortable when in preparation and “bouncing” • Durable inner edge to deal with foot drag on the lunge, especially with metal strips • Traction: wood floors and gyms.

In design of fencing shoes there are many innovations and inventions. Fencing is a sport involving asymmetrical foot movement. Other sports involving asymmetrical foot movement are, for example high jumping, sprinting, running, and etc. For example there is quite interesting invention Asymmetric shoes (US patent # 6,430,847, 2002), author of invention Ciro Fusco and Wolfgang Scholz, assignee Adidas International B.V., allow each foot to perform optimally; provide each foot with stability, support, cushioning and flexibility is dictated by the basic asymmetric movements of the specific sport (Fig. 52).

Fig. 52

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The shoes including a trailing shoe and a leading shoe that are each specially adapted to the particular asymetric movement of the trailing and leading foot, respectively, allowing each foot to perform optimaly.The leading and trailing shoes each include an upper and sole. The trailing shoe sole includes front, rear, lateral, and medial portions, the lateral sole portion having a greater thickness than the medial portion.

Nike submitted patent, by invetors Bruce J. Kilgore and Ciro Fusco, “Article of footwear for fencing” US patent 7543397, 2009, described the asymetrical fencing foot. (Fig. 53). According to the article by Craig Harkins, 2015, “Nike Patent on Asymmetrical Lacing” 79, he also found the early prototype of the fencing shoe mentioned in the Kilgore patent made by “Nike”. (Fig. 54).

Patent US 7543397 Fig. 53

Nike fencing shoes. Fig. 54

Mask The mask protects the head and face. It has a padded bib, which covers the neck.

For the analogue design of the fencing mask can be taken the designs for the medieval helmets.

Medieval helmets protected head of medieval knights and warriors. Helmets were often the strongest part of armour. Examples of medieval helmets 80 (Fig. 55):

Great helm-in the late twelfth century in the context of the crusades and remained in use until the fourteenth century.

Chain mail hood - Made of interlocking steel or iron rings riveted closed, mail is flexible and tough. It was used nonstop from the height of the Roman Empire until the end of the Renaissance, reaching its peak in use during the High Middle Ages. Chainmail was worn by Vikings, Normans and pan European knights and warriors during middle ages. Offers good protection against cuts. Disadvantage was its weight, loud and inability to protect against thrusts and crushes century.

Barbute-A barbute is a visor less war helmet of 14th to 15th century Italian design, often with distinctive "T" shaped or "Y" shaped opening for the eyes and mouth.

39

subsequently), in them openings for eyes so the part of the person most needing protection appeared as a result of open for a prick, casual or intended were cut through. 85 La Boessiere’s invention created a turning point in fencing as a sport. The safety that this mask offered, allowed instructors and masters to focus on more varied techniques, on precision and even increased the speed of swordplay! It sparked more development in non-fatal techniques emphasising strategy and calculated plans of attack. Fencing became more of a thinking game. The mask has been improved over the years with new and more resilient materials being used to offer optimal protection and comfort.

Even though the mask is absolutely crucial, it is not the only important part of modern protective equipment. La Boessiere’s innovation along with recent advances in protective gear has made fencing one of the safest sports practiced today. The sample of mask please see (Fig. 56).

La Boesserie mask (1780).

The wire fencing mask with ties - Alexandre Picard Bremond's fencing manual, Turin. 86 (1782).

US Army military fencing mask, 18 century. 88

Fencing mask 87 (K. T. Bulochko, 1967) XVIII century (a, b, c); Fencing mask XIX century (d, e, f); Modern mask for fencing for the period of 1967: g - for foil; Hepee; K - sabre.

French, late 18th c. 89

41

Mask 18th c. 90

An Antique Black leather and wire mesh fencing mask. 91

Sabre mask 1800. 92

Sabre Fencing mask (18001810) ) 93

Sabre fencing mask for military use, Italy, 1850.

(Agora Museum 94).

Russian (1850)

French (1870).

Wire mask, plain, French pattern (1884).

Wire mask, with ear protection (1884).

Wire mask, with ear and forehead protection (1884).

Cane helmet, English pattern, for stick practice (1884).

Mask for epee (Italy) 95 (1885).

Mask for sabre (1885).

George Krauss (German fencer) mask (1890). 96

Fencing Mask (1890). 97

French pattern mask with ears (1897). 99

Fencing mask, 1893 – Till Fots. 98

Vintage WWI military broadsword/bayonet training fencing mask. 100

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19th century mask. 101

Mask (1900). 102

Mask model similar “Enrichetti”, Italy, 20th Foil mask, Italy (1950). century.

Transparent mask by Prieur by Fritsch Durisotti 1998. 112

Mask, USSR (1980 period)

Transparent mask, designed to be used with Aramis plastic foil. Made

by Aramis plastic sword fencing. 2013. 113

Transparent mask.

Modern fencing metal mash mask.

Fig. 56 According to FIE regulation from 2014 the wearing of the transparent mask is forbidden at all weapons and in all FIE competitions.

Due to modern designs, on fencing mask there is possible to make some drawings, namely logo of different countries, with special approval by Executive Committee. For example according to “Drawings on masks approved by the Executive Committee (06.12.2013)”, FIE, mask looks like as (Fig 57):

Canada

Germany

Great Britain

Georgia 45

USA

France

Fig. 57 There are quite interesting ideas, inventions for the fencing mask, like as:

Fig. 58

Fig. 59

Fig. 60

Equipment for practicing sport fencing - (EP 1,051,998, 2000) Author Nocolino Alvaro, Protective mask for practising sport fencing, characterized in that it comprises a body made of high strength moulded plastic which is at least partly perforated and is attached, in a manner such that it can be tilted, to a skull cap which fits on the top of the user's head, the said mask having a viewing part consisting of a perforated metal strip at the front or a transparent visor (Fig. 58).

Fencing mask (Patent SU 715095, 1980), author Vladimir Gerasimenko and others, in which mask has punched conic the nozzles, fixed on front part of a mask in the field of respiratory organs, in the front part of a mask and nozzles are executed from a transparent shock-resistant material.

Mask made from polystyrene (Fig. 59).

Fencing mask ventilation (Patent EP 2,186,552, 2010), Author Arveras Garcia. The fencing mask includes an internal ventilation system which allows a significant reduction of the high temperature generated inside the mask (Fig. 60).

For this proposed to use combination of a flat helicoidally fan, placed on the upper inner zone of the mask's front mesh, with an accumulator and electrical switch, placed on the rear security strip of the mask.

Fencing mask, Patent US 2362597, 1941. Author Joseph D. Vince. This invention relates for improvements of the masks, in protection and to combine in a more or less integral form, the face rim, bib and chin pad, and to permit and facilitate the removal of said parts for the purpose of cleaning those elements (Fig. 45 a); Bib and chin pad slightly folded for attachment to the mask (Fig.53 b); Face rim, bib and chin pad for attachment to the mask (Fig.53c); Integrally combined face rim, bib and chin pad for attaching the latter to the mask (Fig. 61).

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1. Full Tang. Entire handle is the tang with handle scales attached to the sides with pins or screws.

2. Rat-Tail Tang. A bolt or treated pommel secures the blade to a steel bar welded to the blade.

3. Half Tang.

Approximately ½ of the handle is tang.

4. Encapsulated tang.

Handle is molded around the tang.

5. Push Tang (1/2 6. Push Tang (full length). The tang is length) The tang is pushed into the handle pushed into the handle and fixed in place and fixed in place Fig. 178 We tried to collect all information about designs of the fencing handles through the different sources and create some table of the products by different companies - the Official fencing equipment suppliers licensed and registered by FIE and etc. Maybe title of some handles is not always the same, but we tried not to change them and leave them according the sources/origin and also with legality of use. For example, some similarities are found in designs of handles of “Cetrulo” and “Spanish modern (illegal),” and etc. There is not so big official information, which handles are officially approved and due to this fact we provided information, according their sources of origin. Year producing of the handles, given according to the information which was available from the origin sources.

Title to the some handles given according to country of origin, but in some cases handles given name of the authors and models, like as Zivkovic, Prat, Golubitski, etc. Harut handles - are made from types of exotic wood and includes: Buninga, King Wood, Lacewood, Zebra, Ebony, and etc.

Some handles are produced with insulated or non-insulated covers; with leather or rubber covers; with the different size: small, large, X, XL. Classical /traditional grip (Fig.179) and Pistol grip (fig.

180).

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List of handles of existing fencing weapons Classic/ Traditional grips

Italian style

Giordano Rossi, 1885

Eugenio Pini, 1906

Regio Esercito, 1906

Masaniello Parize. 19th and early–20th

Leonardo F.Terrone.

19th and early–20th

Leonardo F.Terrone/ Giuzeppe Perez.19th and early–20th

Leonardo F.Terrone Giuzeppe Perez Masaniello Parise.19th and early– 20th

French

Herminio Eccheri, 1925

Cugnon D'alincourt. 1905.

Agesilao Greco, 1930

Herminio Eccheri. 1920

Souzy Aine, 1930

Combination Italian with Anatomic grip

Giocomo Misto, Mid-19th century

Lancet Fencing

Lancet Fencing

Lancet Fencing

Prat, 2006

Harut Fencing

Fig. 179 110

Pistol Grips

Dr. Eugene-Louis Doyen, 1908

Dr. Eugene-Louis Doyen, 1908

Athos Di San Malato, 1920

Domenico Triolo, 1924

Michele Alajmo, 1936

Russian, V. Sergeev, 1948.

American

Hungarian

German

Shermasport

Cetrulo

Spanish, modern, 1948

Spanish, modern

Spanish offset

Dos Santos

Spanish pistol

Edward Gardere, early 20th century

Rambeau, Rambo

Zivkovich

E. Maggiani

Francesco Visconti, 1920-1930

Belgian

Gryptonite Golubitsky Pistol Fig. 180

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Below is provided some descriptions for various handles: Classic/traditional Grips

1. Italian grip

Gauntlets steel bars Extended Italian Foil with Extended Quillions 300

Italian -style grip is simply a modi version of the top of the steel ba pushed forward a little.

Vintage Spanish Rapier Fencing Sword Foil- Made in Toledo SpainAsymmetric handle 301

Fig. 181 The Italian grip (Fig. 181) rarely seen in modern fencing, is straight, with two metal rings near the bell guard. The thumb and forefinger gripped the flattened portion (ricasso) of the blade; the middle finger passed through the outer ring between the guard and the crosspiece; The Italian grip is sometimes strapped to the wrist with a leather strap.

The combination of rings and wrist strap make the Italian grip ideal for strong, forceful blade maneuvers, which comes at the cost of much of the fine finger control of the weapon. The Italian grip is often assumed to be illegal in the modern sport, but this is not the case 302. There is possible hand injury if the fingers twist in the crossbar rings during a match or when a fencer disengages. Additional hand and arm strength is required to use the Italian grip. 303 2.

Model of Maestro Giordano Rossi

Fig. 182 112

Giordano Rossi 304 , Italian swordsmanship, author of the book “Sherma di Spada e Sciabola”. 305 1885. Milan. (Fig. 182).

3. Eugenio Pini

Fig. 183 Eugenio Pini (Italy), Model, according to Gajardini Lucillo catalogue “I Migliori Prodotti per scherma” 306, 1906. (Fig. 183) 4.

Regio Esercito

Fig. 184 R. Esecito (Italy), Model, according to Gajardini Lucillo catalogue “I Migliori Prodotti per scherma” 307, 1906. (Fig. 184)

4. Masaniello Parize 19th and early–20th (Italy) Fig. 185 Massaniello Parise, 308 Neapolitan master. 1866. Maestro Massaniello Parise headed Scuola Magistrale di Roma. 309 (Fig. 185).

Terrone

5. Grip Models of Leonardo F.Terrone Giuzeppe Perez Masaniello Parise

Terrone-Perez

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19th and early–20th (Italy)

Parise-TerronePerez Fig. 186

Professor Leonard F. Terrone - During the early twentieth century, Fencing master of the University of Pennsylvania Fencing Club, founder and coach, stressed that students should learn to fence with both hands in order to achieve correct physical development, He reasoned that this could be accomplished only if both sides of the body and both hemispheres of the brain should receive equal cultivation 310. His work was described in “Right and Left handed fencing”. 1959 311. (Fig. 186).

Giuzeppe Perez - Verona, Italy. Manufacturer of High Quality Arms Supplier of Arms to the Magistral School of Fencing at Rome and to the Italian and other European Armies Founded in 1867. 312,313

Fig. 187

6. French grip

The French grip (Fig. 187) is the more common of the traditional grips in this day and age, but in modern times its numbers dwindle as users switch over to pistol grips. The French grip emphasizes point control, a gentle but controlled grasp of the weapon, and finesse and efficiency in blade work. It is at best a minor refinement of the most basic grip a sword-type weapon might have: a mostly straight handle, with a few contours to fit the hand.

7. Cugnon D’alicourt grip.

Fig. 188 Cugnon D'alincourt grip 314,315 (1905), (Fig. 188).

8. Herminio Eccheri

114

(1920) (1925)

Fig. 189 Anatomic handle, Italian type for the sword and foil, by Herminio Eccheri, Italian fencing master, author design of handles which were protected by Argentina patent # 24.166.

(1920, 1925). 316, 317 (Fig. 189) 9

Agesilao Greco

Fig. 190

The "Sword international," proposed by Agesilao Greco in his book " The Sword in its reality- war races " (1930) to summarize and exceed the features of the models Italian and French 318 (Fig. 190).

Fig. 191

10 Souzy Aine

Lacrosse handle molded by the Souzy Aine 319 . 1930, Fencing weapons French maker.

(Fig. 191).

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11 . Combination Italian grip with anatomic grip

Fig. 192

Combination Italian grip with anatomic grip 320 (author unknown), installed on electric foil, looks like a combination of: Italian, Cugnon D'alincourt and Souzy Aine grips design mix.(Fig. 192) 12. Modern French Grip Lancet Fencing 321

Fig. 193

Ergonomically designed French Grip. (Fig. 193) (Legal for international Olympic sport fencing competition). This is a similar design like as 1908 Pattern Cavalry Trooper Sword, please see below. The end part of design looks, like as Cugnon D'alincourt grip.

13. Saber: Sport Grip Lancet Fencing

Fig. 194

The end part of design looks, like as Cugnon D'alincourt grip.(Fig.194) 14. Modern Rapier Lancet Fencing

Fig. 195

Non electric martial arts fencing rapier (Fig. 195) for all kind of fencing and modern rapier practice. Interesting design of handles, combinations of the modern French grip and Italian grip. Modern rapier is a new kind of fencing that combines the historic with the modern in ways that take fencer to the next level. 360 degree movement, symmetrical body dynamics, classical and modern techniques combine to develop circum-spatial awareness, balance, agility and swordsmanship. Such kind of fencing possible to watch on YouTube, 322 Modern Rapier Symmetrical training and etc.

15. Handle Prat 323

Fig. 196

Certified SEMI FIE approval for sword on 2012. This handle (Fig. 196) imagined and developed by Fernand Prat (Monaco) and can be used in all international tournaments including the Olympic Games. The novelty of the handle protected by Patent # WO2008/096080, (2008) and Patent France # 2,910,819, (2006).

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16 “Harut” Fencing French grip.

USA 324

Fig. 197

Saber grips (Fig. 197) – is assembled and enforced with metallic armature and entirely covered with carbon fiber or made with hardwood natural dried wooden materials. Grip for epee - is assembled and enforced with internal metallic armature and high quality rubber.

Additional support to hold the grip.

To prevent disarms or to give more control or strengthen when needed, holding of Italian or French grip, was made different solutions, like as: with belt, leather and steel martingales. Unfortunately, authors could not found the first source, years of invention of above mentioned supports.

Fig. 198

Fig. 198 a

Fixing the grip on the wrist, with belt. (fig. 198)

Holding the Italian handle, according to Raoul Clery, 325 “ Escrime”. (1965).

(Fig. 198 a)

Foil for “Gioco Misto”. Straight cord covered handle, brass pommel, Italy, Mid-19th century, with the metal loop. (Fig.199)

Fig. 199

Fig. 190

The holder for the finger looks, like as Italian “Albertina” spadron, 1833, mentioned above.

Using the leather martingale. The size reflects how many fingers fit inside the loop. This can be used to hold a grip for all three weapons 326 (Fig. 200). The leather martingale is also analog solution of the grip, provided by Agesilao Greco.

117

Fig. 200 Steel martingale, according to Souzy & de Lacam catalogue, 1908. 327. This martingale also can be mounted on sabre, epee or foil They sit between the weapons grip and pad and follow along the belly of the grip. At various finger intervals the steel curves out to fit comfortably between the fingers. The three sizes, one, two and three fingers, designates which finger the loop rests behind: “one finger” the index finger; “two finger” – the middle finger; ‘three finger” – the ring finger. On the foils or epees, steel martingales greatly assist in maintaining control of the weapon during flying point coupes, expulsions and presses while still allowing the use of the dexterous French grip. Adding one to a sabre offers increase control during cuts, engagements and hanging guard. 328 (Fig. 201).

We think that such kind of support gave an idea, to invent more modern design - pistol grip.

Pistol Grips

1. Dr. Doyen grip

Fig. 202 According to Achille Edom’s book L’escrime, le duel and l’epee published (1908) provided several design of grips designed by Dr. Eugene-Louis Doyen pistol grip, which was looks like a modern grip and D’Alincourt grip. (Fig. 202) Dr. Doyen was noted for his sometimes controversial innovations of surgical techniques and medical instruments. The grip he designed was meant to be custom made to fit the hand of the user and reduce fatigue. Dr. Doyen was a noted sharp shooter and swordsman. 329 2. Athos Di San Malato Staiti

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Fig. 203 The grip of by Athos Di San Malato (Patent France # 512,730, (1920), “New weapon of war system, saber, short sword or knife” and “Improvement in or relating to swords and the like” Patent GB # 161041, (1921) - the grip (for the military sword, dagger and etc) is formed with a number of projections which ensure a definite position of the hand. On a picture also show holding the handle. 330 (Fig. 203). On (Fig 204) shown pistol grip of Athos Di San Malato.

Fig. 204 3. Visconti

Fig. 205

Francesco Visconti - the inventor of the pistol grip, (Fig. 205), which was called, the anatomic handle, or then orthopedics. 331 , 332 . According to the design this is more improved design then pistol grip by Athos di San Malato. Francesco Visconti was born on 1882 in Vercelli. 333 He was trained in Vercelli School of fencing 334 under the Luigi Peroncini Colombetti. Over the decades Luigi Peroncini Colombetti formed and trained many future masters like Visconti and Francesco Giuseppe Mangiarotti and samples, among which the most notable for the Olympic medals Giorgio Anglesio and Joseph Delfino, both in the specialty of the sword.

On the (Fig. 206 a), shown prototype and model of “handles made by Visconti.” (19201930) Authors are thankful to Giuliana Ricci, with help of her we were allowed to use the name of Mr. President of “Associazione Scherma Pro Vercelli A.S.D.” Dottor Italo Monetti for the information which was given to us, from the book “In guardia! Francesco Visconti” 335 by Marco Barberis and Ezio Canali (1998).

119

a

b Fig. 206

Quite interesting design of the Visconti grip provided by Giuseppe Mangiarrotti in his book “La Spada”, page 61, 1971 where the top projection of the pistol grip is too lover, compare the original design (Fig. 206 b ).

There are different information and opinions in the literature on a different languages, for example, between Italian and English, ideas about Visconti and with not correct first name; for example in Wikipedia, English version, (information from Wikipedia, Italian language provided above), mentioned “L. Visconti”, like as: “In 19th century Italian aristocrat, L. Visconti, master of fencing, who lived in Belgium and had lost fingers in a trauma accident. It contours entirely to one's hand and is held much like a pistol, hence the name”. 336

Fig. 207

4. China Grip

This grip is analog of the Visconti grip, but, according to Guan Gong, article, “Fencing grip,” 337 in China really have this kind of grip, but because China has this type of grip manufacturers , so some people call it the name abroad (Fig. 207) .

5. Domenico Triolo Grip

Fig. 208 Domenico Triolo, the fencer from Palermo (Italy). Pictures of the grips (approximately 1924) were kindly provided to authors by Maestro Giancarlo Toran and Riccardo Vitale.

The top and bottom projections looks like as Italian grip (Fig. 208).

6. Michele Alajmo grip

120

Fig. 209

Italian Spada model by Michele Alajmo (1936) 338 (Fig. 209).

7. E. Maggiani grip

Fig. 210

E. Maggiani grip. Unfortunately authors could not found more detailed information.

Picture of this grip was kindly provided by Riccardo Vitale "maison Gajardoni". (Fig. 210)

8. Belgian

A

B

Fig. 211 The Belgian grip (Fig. 211 A) is smoothly contoured, with a wrist extension that is flat and thin. The lower protrusion has a small prong that extends between the middle and ring fingers. The Belgian grip is available in a great variety of sizes and makes, and each manufacturer's Belgian grip has a slightly different form, though the general shape is consistent across brands. The Belgian grip is a good first pistol grip, and it is comfortable for most users as long as the correct size of grip is being used. There is also another kind of design, like as the Short Orthopedic Insulated Prieur Handle 339 , Model 650. (Fig. 211 B).

Fig. 212

9. Russian

The Russian grip (Fig. 212) is quite minimalist-it is about as simple as a pistol grip gets.

The contours of the grip are very rectangular, and the lower protrusion is basically just a slightly angled block around which the fingers may be wrapped. The pommel extension is broad and flat. Well suited to those with large hands and those who are most familiar with French grips. In Russian literature about fencing, Konstantin Bulochko “Fencing,� 1967, mentioned that Russian pistol grip designed by the honorable coach in fencing of USSR by 121

V. Sergeev, 1948.

Fig. 213

10. American

The American grip (Fig. 213) has the thickness of the Visconti grip, the angularity of the Russian grip, and the general form of the Belgian grip. It is large, and well-suited to those with bigger hands, but it seems to condense some of the worst properties of the Visconti, Russian, and Belgian grips into a single package. The American grip is easily identified by the fact that the extremity of its lower protrusion is usually roughly hexagonal in crosssection.

Fig. 214

11. Hungarian

Hungarian grip (Fig. 214) - is similar to a Belgian grip but somewhat thicker. The Hungarian grip is named after its country of origin. On above provided different design of the grip.

12. German

Fig. 215

German Visconti Grip (Fig. 215), often referred to simply as a German grip, this pistol grip is similar to the Visconti, but considerably narrower in profile. The pommel extension is flat and extends quite far down the wrist--long enough that many fencers find that it gets in the way. Because of this, it is common to see a German grip with the pommel extension simply sawn off. I find that this makes the grip considerably more difficult to hold, for some reason. The German grip, in unmodified form, is my favorite pistol grip.

13. Shermasport

Fig. 216

The design of Shermasport is analog of the German grip. Fig. 216.

14. Cetrulo Fig. 217 Back side of the grip 340, 341 American fencing family Cetrulo. Authors could not found the first source, who is the author from Cetrulo family’s member desinger of the grip, because Dean Cetrulo was 122

sabre fencer. Dean’s father Gerardo Cetrulo, was an Italian fencing master and longtime coach at Dartmouth (USA) 342. (Fig. 217).

15. Spanish modern 343 (Illegal) The design of the grip looks like as Cetrulo. 344 Spanish Grip, according to Glovis Deladrier, “Modern fencing,” Page 3. 1948.

Picture provided by Riccardo Vitale.

The design looks as analog of Cetrrulo, grip.

Fig. 218 Spanish grip (Fig.218) was among the earliest pistol grips, it is now considered illegal by Olympic standards. The most notable difference in the Spanish grip and other pistol grips is the absence of a large lower protrusion. Instead, the grip has extras hooks, one at the top and another at the bottom, for hooking the thumb and the middle finger. It's this configuration that has made the grip illegal as it allows the fencer to "pommel" the sword, an illegal act which gives the fencer up to an inch greater reach without a reduction in leverage. 345 Spanish grip design had analog from Michele Alajmo.

16. Spanish modern 346 (Illegal)

Fig. 219

Design of this grip also looks like as Michele Alajmo.(Fig. 219)

Fig. 220

17. Spanish Offset (Illegal)

The design of this grip similar to Cetrulo’s grip. (Fig. 220) 347.

123

18. Dos Santos Grip 348

Fig. 221

The design looks combination of Cugnon D’alicourt grip and (back part, pommel side) and the top projection as a Alajmo grip’s top projection. (Fig. 221).

19. Spanish Grip (pistol grip)

Fig. 222

20. Gardere 349

Fig. 223

Hybrid between the French and pistol grips was developed early 20th century by master of the same name, the Edward Gardere grip, one of the first fencing masters to adopt the use of the "orthopedic" or "pistol" grip (a type of grip designed for fencers with damaged sword hands).(Fig. 223). The grip is very similar to the French-pommeled Spanish grip, with more contouring and an additional hook behind the pinky. With the addition of this third hook, the grip may be pommeled a great distance-it is easy to gain well over an inch of reach using this grip with almost no loss of leverage. The Gardere grip is extremely rare these days, and is illegal for the same reason as the Spanish grip. 350 21. Rambeau grip

Fig. 224

Rambeau grip is sort of similarity, and modified on Russian grip. In some sources, like as ‘Fencing net”, it’s called as a “Rambo. 351”. (Fig. 224)

22. Zivkovic B Handle/Z Handle 352

Fig. 225

Branimir Zivkovic makes many grips (Fig. 225) roughly in a Visconti style, with several modifications and variety of sizes according to the fencer’s hand. The design of the grip also known as "elephant's ear". 353 Fig. 226

23. Gryptonite Golubitsky Pistol

The original handle (Fig. 226) was adapted from the Belgian handle. On the lower protrusion Sergei Golubitsky had built up the handle extensively with tape and this helped 124

to grip the little and ring fingers tight into the handle against the protrusion. 354 The similar design, covering the below projection with tape mentioned by Giuseppe Mangiarotti in the book “La Spada�, page 17, 1971. (Fig. 227).

Fig. 227

125

A good idea is never lost. Even though its originator or possessor may die without publicizing it, it will someday be reborn in the mind of another....

Thomas A. Edison

Handle inventions, patents As a design of the handles, we would like to provide as an example, the 1908 Pattern Cavalry Trooper's Sword 355 (and the 1912 Pattern, the equivalent for officers) was the last service sword issued to the cavalry of the British Army. It was widely considered the most effective cavalry sword ever designed, although ironically its introduction occurred as swords finally became obsolete as military weapons.

The rounded rectangular section chequered grip was of a semi-pistol configuration. Although not as extreme as modern fencing pistol or orthopedic grips, this design caused the blade to naturally align with the arm when the arm was extended, in position for a charge using the point. A thumb stop was indented on top of the grip, just behind the guard. The large pommel helped to keep the point of balance of the sword close to the guard, balancing the sword for its length.

The original official specification called, once again, for a “cut and thrust” blade and the final 18 inches (460 mm) of the blade was theoretically supposed to be sharpened, but little more than lipservice was paid to cutting ability. The straight blade prevented the slicing action of a curved sabre and the concussive force would be compromised by the hilt-biased balance. Furthermore the narrow blade was weak in the cutting axis, and the pistol grip with specialized thumb placement, ideal for thrusting, was awkward for the cut, provided by Andrew Jordan in his article “Knofs: design background” and “Blade smith”. 356,357 (Fig. 228).

Drawing of one of the oldest sword handle

Fig. 228 We tried to find information about fencing weapon handles inventions and below are shown some of them (Fig.229) Existing patented fencing handles

1.

Kokochashvilis’ handle for fencing weapon Authors: George Kokochashvili and Shalva Kokochashvili

Patent of Georgia 433 Patent SU # 1,734,800 (1992)

126

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Kokochashvilis’ handle for cold weapon.

Authors: George Kokochashvili and Shalva Kokochashvili Kokochashvilis’ handle for fencing weapon.

Authors: George Kokochashvili and Shalva Kokochashvili Cantilever Epee Handle Pack Leon Paul. 358

Ergonomic handle for a fencing weapon Author: Fernard Prat Fencing sword Author: Julius Henry Reinhardt Handle for fencing weapons Author: Ganz Ulrich Foil Handle Author: Kwong -.Yu.R. Lee

Patent of Georgia 431 Patent SU # 1,572,664 (1990)

Patent of Georgia 444 Patent SU # 1,466,767 (1988)

Patent Pending GB1306080.1 Patent # WO2008/096080 (A1); (2008) Patent France # 2,910,819. (2006) Patent US 6,565,484 B1 (2003)

DE 3,414,912 (1985)

US Patent 2,663,251 (1982)

9.

Handle for fencing epee, sabre or foil Author: John Culling

US Patent 234,836 (1975) US Patent 234837 (1975) US Patent 234,839 (1975)

10.

Handle for fencing epee, sabre or foil Author: John Culling

US Patent 234,838 (1975)

11.

Handle for weapon of fencing particularly for foil and epee Author: Francois Jean-Paul

FR 2,262,791 ( 1975)

12.

Hand guard for file Author: Rimond.E. Lind Etal

US Patent 3,121,938 (1964)

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13.

Sword Author: Frederick W. Moehle

14.

Sword Author: G.L. Marble

15.

“Empunadura anatomica, tipo Italiano, de epada o florete.”

Author: Herminio Eccheri

16.

17.

18.

19.

“Majoras en una empunadura anatomica, tipo Italiano, de epada o florete.”

Author: Herminio Eccheri “New weapon of war system , saber, short sword or knife”.

Author: Athos Di San Malato Staiti “Improvement in or relating to swords and the like” Author: Athos Di San Malato Staiti

Handled implement Author: Henry.F. Everett

US Patent 2,544,563 (1951)

US Patent 1,886,567 (1932)

Patent Argentina (1925)

Patent Argentina # 24.166 (1920)

Patent France # 512,730 (1920).

Patent GB # 161041 (1921)

US Patent 840,832 (1907)

Fig. 229

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Transforming Handles of Kokochashvili KT (1987)

KT- 1

KT - 2

KT- 6

KT - 3

KT- 7

KT - 4

KT- 8

KT – 5

KT- 9

KT- 11

KT- 10

Fig. 232

132

Handles of Kokochashvili K (1990)

K-1

K-2

K-4

K-LR Fig. 233 K-5

K-3 Handles of Kokochashvili with small guard KG (1992)

KG - 1

Fig. 234 KG-2

KG - 3

KG-4

Below provide more detailed description and explanation of each handles. (Fig. 235, 236, 237) 133

Kokochashvilis’ Handles - KT (Transforming) KT -1

Transforming handle can be made with the light strentgthened materials, with some small assambled details, according to the needs, which are not shown for now. Below are giveen only scematic and structural versions of the design.

KT-2

KT – 3

Double upper projection with thumb finger support.

Upper and bottom projection opposite side.

KT- 4

KT-5

Upper and bottom projection, on one side.

Fixing (support) of thumb finger with possible regulation of the width.

KT-6

KT-7 With top projection.

With top and bottom projection.

KT-8

KT-9

The support of the thumb finger and top projection The support of the thumb finger and top projection (holders for the fingers) are fixed separately. (holders for the fingers) are fixed together.

KT- 11

KT- 10 The top and bottom projection and support for the thumb finger (holders for the fingers) are fixed together.

Thumb finger support.

KT – 11 Support for the thumb finger for the Sabre 2cm from the guard.

Fig. 235

134

Kokochashvilis’ Handles - K K-1

Handle with different shape of the surface, can be hold/used also by person who lost some finger (s). In our design there are presented general design with different style of holding the handles. Due to the fact that fingers should be in one position, after finalizing the style of holding the handle, back part/shape of the handle can be shortened.

Location and position of thumb and index fingers are parallel to each other;

Location of thumb and index fingers are not in one line, index finger is back, then thumb.

LEFT/RIGHT KLR

This design of the handle can be used for the right and left hand fencers. This can be useful for the coach, who is teaching fencer and sometimes changing hand left to the right. In this case don’t need to change weapon with left or right hand handle.

Using the Kokochashvilis’ handle KLR for the saber

Holding handle with 2 cm. from the guard

Holding handle in front the guard

K-2

With thumb support

With top projection

K-3

K-4 With top projection and thumb finger support

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K-5

Handle with double top projections. This can be used, for the person who had injury of the thumb finger, for example shorter size, than normal.

Fig. 236 Kokochashvilis’ Handles - KG (with small guard under the lower part)

KG – 1

Size of the guard depend on to the size/width of the index finger; should be minimum size to avoid injure the opponent. The top projection made like a wing shape. This can be used by person, who had injury of the thumb finger

KG – 2

With double top wing projection

KG-3

Thumb finger support and top projection

KG-4

With double top projection

Fig. 237 The Kokochashvilis’ Handles KLR - one design for right or left hand can be used in case like when coach, for example, as it was shown on figure when Josif Vitebski epee giving the lesson with right or left hand.

Each design of our handles can be discussed, criticized, please provide arguments, but before rejecting the idea, it’s better to make a test. You are welcome …

The Georgian Fencing Federation (GFF) already recommended (2013) to FIE (International Fencing Federation) the innovative fencing equipment from Georgia: 1. Kokochashvilis’ Handles for fencing weapons (GE Pat.431, Inv. Pat.SU # 1572664; GE Pat.433, Inv. Pat. SU # 1734800 and GE Pat.444, Inv. Pat. SU # 1466767); 2. Kokochashvilis’ Training device for fencing (GE Pat.432, Inv. Pat. SU # 1397049); 3. Kokochashvilis’ Training device for the sportsmen of game kind of sports (GE Pat.443, Inv. Pat. SU # 1535553).

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As per the GFF the above listed devices are fully in compliance with the existing FIE regulations and standards. The GFF agrees that the innovative Kokochashvili’s fencing handles and the devices are bringing the very positive effects and helps the progress in our field.

Fig. 2238 Brother Kokochashvili’s families with children and inventions-left to right: George with his sons Sandro and Luka, Shalva with daughter Nana and son Otari. (Fig. 238).

The authors would like to express our thanks to Maestro Giancarlo Toran, Director of Agora fencing Museum in Busto Arsizio, Italy. This is pleasure and honor, at the same time, for us that our Georgian invented handles, first time in the history, are placed (2015) with other worldwide well known fencer’s handles, such as Athos Di San Malato, Francesco Visconti, Domenico Triolo, Michele Alajmo, E. Maggiani and etc. We hope that our handles and other our inventions can be useful for the Fencing world. (Fig. 239)

137

Fig. 239

138

Fig. 239 A

139

Kokochashvilis’ Training device for fencers After short description some of existing training devices for fencer we would like to introduce also our inventions, “Kokochashvilis’ Training device for fencers” (Patent SU # 1,397,049) (1988), and Georgian patent # 432), Authors: George and Shalva Kokochashvili.

By the way, will be interesting to tell to the reader of this book, that the mentioned invention was the product of one of the midnight’s dream of one of the authors of this device, which was later after few hours immediately on the next morning transferred as an sketch on paper, shared with brother and then prepared it in metal and plastic, wood and glass…plus this was the era of the limited video means and power supply in the country of Georgia.

Device permits to raise the effect of individual training for fencers.

The described device (Fig. 259 - 265) consists of a mirror 1, which is protected by transparent board made of shock-proof material. This one can be attached or stuck together by the layer of synthetic organic substance (ex. butaphol or celluloid) to the mirror 1. The device also includes imitator (bio members) 3 and 4 of an adversary having trapezoidal profile and which are mounted in horizontal and vertical surface, with possibility of moving and fixing on a needed level. The straight part of element 4 is designed in stepwise form; swinging connected side mirror 5-8 are provided with the transparent boards 9-12 made of shock-proof material. Sectional 5 and 9, 6 and 10, 7 and 11, 8 and 12 are revolved relatively with each other on the axis. Swinging connection can be locked in every position of the said sections.

The training device, mentioned mirror-board can be fixed on a necessary height for the sportsman.

Imitators 3 or 4 can be mounted on necessary level (Fig. 259, 260). To guarantee observation of fencer motion, side mirror 5 - 8 are mounted in such positions, which guarantee watching of sportsmen’s self-motion owing to the side mirror and also owing to upper and lower sides.

Sportsman can touch on the surface 2 or touch and beat (with sword) on the surface of elements 3 and 4. The stepwise inclined part of front side element 4 (Fig. 260) guarantees seeing the motions and positions of a hand or body at the moment of the touching or beating. Due to trapezoidal profile of elements 3 and 4 i.e. of inclined part, there is possibility to raise the angle of inclination for the side mirrors 5-8. If necessary, elements 3 and 4 can be taken off. Also the side elements 912 can be taken.

Fig. 260

Fig. 259

148

Polyhedron shape of elements 3 and 4 serve for the mastering of precise motions at the moment of touching. It guarantees the heightening of precise action and motion of a hand the moment of touching, especially with the angles, which are used in training with the sword: in right and left on the element 4 and up-down, right-left, left-down on the element 3. Herein sportsman observes and controls precise motion by means of the mirror-board 1 and position of set – by the mirror 5-8.

Also the elements 3 and 4 can be used for imitation of touching in the adversary’s lower part, for example, into the leg. There is also possible to fix on imitators fencing weapon on proposed device, like as it mentioned in US patent 3,599,975, or patent France # 2,855,426.

In training with the sabre for the mastering of beating (chopping), the frontal shape of elements 3 and 4 can also have the shape of a cylinder; it’s possible to imitate the motion of beating (chopping) on a mask from above, beating on the hand from low and from above - on the element 4. Element 3 and 4 can be manufactured with metal material, covered with layer of the material which stand up to an impact and is non-slippery. The front part of element 3 is protruded forward in comparison with the element 4.

For narrowing to the opening up to the desired sizes between the elements 9 and 10 or 12 and 11 as in vertical, also in horizontal surfaces (Fig. 261 and 262) an additional element can be added. This situation can be used for controlling amplitude moving of weapon. The head of the weapon (foil or epee) can be provided with elastic cap 13 (Fig. 263) for example for protection of slide in time of touching the device surface.

Fig. 261

Fig. 262

Fig. 263

Herein the elements 9-12 should be fixed in the revolving position, free on the swinging axis for preventing negative occurrence in accidental hitting of the weapon to these elements, ex. during breakage of elements in accidental beating or touching.

Due to the device, the combination of mirror and board is guaranteed, that it should be used in time of individual training by fencers of any rank for controlling the precise motions from all sides, so that the effect of training is heightened.

Using this device, sportsman is getting accustomed to correct and precise motions of a hand in time of touching or beating in to the target. This device makes possible to feel the mistakes in operation with weapon in time of contacting the target, complicate the method of touching or beating as on the target, ex. on the surface 2 and also on the narrow target of the elements 3 and 4 with guarantee of motion amplitude of decreasing by the regulation of transparent elements 11-14.

There is possible that mirror 1 and the transparent board 2 can designed (Fig. 264 and 265) for example, with guarantees vibration or flexible motion of the board due to the spring or flexible top.

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•

It permits touching and beating while the target is moving forward and backward.

•

The design is equipped with the imitators for the mastering of various methods, ways of striking.

•

On the basic design, can be designed simulators of various modifications depending on kind of sports.

Existing Inventions, patents (Fig. 266)

Kokochashvilis’ Training device for fencers.

1

2

Authors: George Kokochashvili, Shalva Kokochashvili

Fencing training and practicing target, has detachable arms and legs projecting from panel that is pivoted by bearing system fixed on wall and information screen to allow fencer to observe beginning and progress rate of exercises.

Patent SU: 139 7049 (1988) Patent Georgia:432

Patent France 2855 426 (2005)

Author: Chaeveu Pierre Henri Luc.

Training device for boxers 3 Authors: Nikolai Efremov.

4

Device for training of fencers Authors: Vladimir Gerimenko and others.

Patent SU # 467 746 (1975)

Patent SU # 435 830 (1974)

Silhouette fencing target 5

Author: Emil Stanley Pellicer

Patent US 3 ,599 975 (1971)

151

6

Silhouette fencing target with adjustable arm

Patent US 3 576 323 (1971)

Author: Emil Stanley Pellicer

7

Electric fencing target for instructing the blind.

Pat. US 3 128 097 (1964)

Author: Rocca Rosario S La

Fencing implement

Pat. US 1 739 795

8 Author: John Krasheninnikoff

(1929)

Fig. 266

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Kokochashvilis’ training device for sportsmen of sports games We have developed the “Training device for sportsmen of sports games (Patent SU # 1,535,553 and Georgian patent 443, 1990). The aim of our device is to heighten the affection of training by the greater imitation of the real conditions.

Device "Kokochashvilis’ Training Device for Sportsman of Sports Games" is an invention, which is based on the legendary and world’s one of the greatest athletes, middle and long distance runner (setting 17 world records), the Australian Ron Clarke’s famous mileage in Tokyo 1964 Summer Olympics 10 000 meter race final. Ron Clark, who was the strongest in this race, finished only the third, due to the created box of runners on the last lap at the stadium (US runner Billy Mills, member of the Oglala Lakota /Sioux/ Tribe, won gold medal) Later, we contacted Ron Clark, and provided to him our invention, which was born due on the basis of his sporting life famous episode. Ron Clark, who is also known for its immeasurable and noble human qualities, happily accepted our invention, in addition gifted his own book and gave us useful tips.

The design consists of foundation 1 and spring 2, on which there are mounted not less than two vertical posts 3, and on each of the said posts there are one or more sleeves 4 with diametrical opposite nests 5 for placing and fixing the holders 6 and elements of resistance 7 representing the crossing elastic bars (Fig. 270, 271).

Fig. 271

Fig. 270

Before the training, posts 3 are placed parallel to each other and by the sleeves 4 the height of the elements of resistance - 7 on the posts in accordingly to the user’s height is regulated. Then, moving the holders 6 in the nests 5 and fixed the distance between the elements of resistance 7 of neighbor posts 3 is mounted taking into consideration the width of things and shoulders of a sportsman. Herein, it’s possible to model the conditions of sportsman’s running in narrow area, ex. between the opponents, so called “box”, i.e. conditions in which the amplitude motion of sportsman’s hands and legs motion are limited.

154

The sportsman should run between the posts 3 with the elements of resistance 7, which are imitating the opponents. Due to the spring 2, the injury security is guaranteed, in time of touching with the posts by the sportsman.

Because there is a possibility to place in the nests 5 the sleeves 4 of the holders 6 with the element of resistance7, which are dispositional in the other sides of posts, the posts can be placed in two or more line, herein ensuring the possibility for training simultaneously for several sportsman.

Depending on tasks of training, it’s possible to place the posts in various orders (Fig. 27) - an example of positioning of the elements of resistance; (Fig. 273) - version of a positioning the post.)

This device can be used for training right location of the body’s parts in running, walking and so on, and also as barriers correspondences on setting of holders and elements of resistance 7.

Fig. 273

Fig. 272

Our training device can be used for fencers - beginners or etc., and also can be very good combinations for training the blind fencers to teach the coordination of movement (Fig. 274). Also our device can be used in various fields, for ex. during the movie or other artists’ exercises (indoor or outdoor) for the theatrical or other special fencing (where the scenes are often for fighting between trees or crowdie and malty people, or exceptional narrow areas)

.

Fig. 274 •

This device serves for coordination and right location of the parts of the body (legs, arms), walking for training sportsmen to move in narrow area and corridors.

155

Existing Inventions, patents (Fig. 276) Kokochashvilis’ training device for sportsmen of sports games.

Authors: George Kokochashvili, Shalva Kokochashvili Device for training of fencers.

Patent SU # 1,535,553.

Patent of Georgia # 443 (1990)

Patent SU # 80,394 (1981)

Authors: Vladimir Gerasimenko and others.

Fig. 276

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Short references and what people/experts are saying about the book “Innovations and Inventions in Fencing” by George and Shalva Kokochashvili Guram Kostava, Georgian Epee fencer, World Champion in the team event at 1961, 1967; Bronze in the team event at the 1960 Summer Olympics, Bronze in the individual event at the 1964 Summer Olympics: “Presented book by Georgian Epee fencers, inventor brothers George and Shalva Kokochashvili, is full with novelties and practical useful information for the fencing sport field. Before this book, there was virtually nothing written on the presented (“innovations and inventions”) topics of Fencing to address the specific needs of Fencing community and just lovers of fencing. At the same time, the release of brothers Kokochashvili’s first fencing book broke new ground by addressing not only the needs of Coaches, but also the Parents who support Young Fencers and the Fencers themselves. With the release of mentioned book, this unique treatment of fencing will at last reach the larger audience. Many of pages in this book are devoted to innovations and inventions of fencing items, which is the foundation of modern training for early and sustainable success, which is impossible without the technical development”.

Maestro Giancarlo Toran, Director of Agora fencing Museum in Busto Arsiziი , Italy: "I was intrigued, this book by George and Shalva Kokochashvili: in digital format only, and dedicated, unusually, inventions and innovations in fencing. I could not ignore it, even if the world of fencing Georgian appeared to me to be farthest from the one in I'm used to venture, in my wanderings to the many ways the culture of fencing. It 'a sport of which I was involved, for almost half a century, as an athlete, then as a teacher, and then, while continuing to teach, as director of a museum dedicated to the origins of the sport fencing. Every day is renewed in me wonder for how vast this world, and how much more there is to see and discover.

Here, discover: the twins are Kokochashvili, as well as fencing, teachers and technicians, including inventors: industriati and have to find new ways to train, new machines for teaching, and new grips for weapons. Some of these, today, are on display in a showcase of the Museum of the Agora fencing of Busto Arsizio, where it shows a kind of genealogy of the handle sports.

The book you hold in your hands is thus a small but original mine, where to find extensive photographic documentation, which is renewed frequently (how easy it is, today, for the work in digital format), and not a few stimulating ideas on the various aspects of fencing. Sure, you'll find something that will help you focus that particular idea that you had in mind ... but you have not yet realized. Good read, too!

Richard Cohen, fencer, writer (Great Britain).

“George and Shalva Kokochashvili have produced a treasure trove of a book about fencing. It is a plum pudding of a book, full of unexpected delights and odd strands of knowledge -- I know of no other book like it. Anyone interested in the literature of fencing, or indeed in cultural history, will find items in the book to enlighten them, entertain them, or simply make them shake their heads that one sport could stretch into so many different areas."

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George and Shalva Kokochashvili are twin brothers from Tbilisi, the capital and largest city of Georgia. Both are civil engineers and inventors, and together share sixteen Georgian and Soviet Union patents for inventions in sport, medicine (surgery, plastic surgery, burns, water therapy) and engineering. But above all they share a passion for fencing. They have been involved in the sport since 1972, and recently George sent me the book he and his brother have been working on painstakingly for several years. I can truly say I’ve never read anything quite like it. Maybe Cristoph Amberger’s wonderful The Secret History of the Sword runs it close, but even that doesn’t rise to quite the same levels of inspired eccentricity.

It goes into everything. Along with a wealth of graphical material (some of which appears in print for the first time), on fencing history, fencing weapons, fencing for the blind, finger jousting, a history of fencing equipment and its evolution (gloves, masks, footwear), fencing on a single cycle, seven chapters on fencing handles, various worldwide inventions, including devices by the Kokochashvili brothers, a list of fencing computer games, and much more besides. English is not the brothers’ first language, and it shows (there is a chapter on ‘Interesting and Funny staff’); but that doesn’t really matter, and their enthusiasm is infectious.

Sandro Bazadze, Georgian Sabre fencer, Junior European Champion (2013), U23 European Champion (2014): “The book “Innovations and inventions in Fencing” by Kokochashvili brothers covers multi typology aspects from the history of the fencing sport to the specifics of fencing equipment’s and weapons, including some data of great fencers and famous people connected with art of fencing, and many of them was really unknown for me and many readers. This book is a really interesting and useful work.”

George (Gia) Abashidze, Georgian Foil fencer, former member of the USSR's National Foil Team, coach of the Georgian National Team, US Coach at Penn State, also club fencing in Portland, Oregon and also at Ohio State (Among his athletes were Olympians -the U.S. women's foil team won the Silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics): “The format of the book “Innovations and inventions in Fencing” book, by George and Shalva Kokochashvili-my childhood good friends and inventors from Tbilisi, Georgia, is such that, any reader can open up to any page and read so many things which is really gives him/her lots of information about fencing from many different angles, and periods of times. Wish to have this book translated in many different languages, including my native Georgian language. I first time saw such book, which compiles so many different things together and covering so many aspects: from past to modern.”

Vakhtang "Vaho" Iagorashvili, Georgian modern pentathlete, Bronze medal winner at the 1988 Summer Olympics, and gold at the1990 Goodwill Games in Seattle, Three-time national champion for the team, 1999-2004 coach of the U.S. Olympic Pentathlon Team: 210

"This book “Innovations and inventions in Fencing” written by brothers-epee fencers George and Shalva Kokochashvili, is an excellent inside look into fencing sport. I also familiar with inventions of brothers Kokochashvili and appreciate their results and efforts for developing the fencing equipment, which is well described also in their book, big asset for fencing sport lovers”.

Manuchar Dvali, Georgian Foil Fencer, Champion of USSR, Doctor of Pedagogical Science, Professor, Georgian State Sport University: “This book “Innovations and inventions in Fencing”, by the Georgian twin brothers George and Shalva Kokochashvili, is the first book that I highly recommend to any type of fencer or anyone simply interested in fencing. Book covers many of the essential information of all fencing weapons (epee, foil, sabre and also others too). This book will serve as the perfect guide for various level experienced fencers and students of fencing, as well as a valuable reference for coaches of this beautiful technical sport. I was very impressed, when I got first this book “Innovations and inventions in Fencing”, which I was virtually looking for a long time, from its authors and thankful for their hard and professional work. In this book there are pages, where authors comparing fencing with various sports and activities to help understand the exercises. It’s a valuable work for the fencers and also non-fencers and also to those wanting to fence.”

Malkhaz Meskhi, Georgian sabre fencer, National Championship Winner, Director of the Parasport Development Centre of Tbilisi: “Yet, there has never been such information on the subject of the fencing innovations until the publication of this book. In a single volume one can locate information on the history of fencing equipment types and novelties around the world; the rich sources and literature for the subject. An excellent modern treatment of these topics. There is also chapter in this book about Parasport, which is just young in country of Georgia. I rate this book “Innovations and inventions in Fencing”

by George and Shalva Kokochashvili, very high”.

Yusuf F. Gülver, Turkish Epee fencer, Mechanical Engineer and Science Researcher (Ilia Vekua Applied Mathematics Institute of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University): “The book written by esteemed authors George and Shalva Kokochashvili appeals to beginners with its up to date wide popular content and also to experienced fencers and masters with its technological content. Conveys to us Georgian contribution to fencing equipment and history, which is rarely known in the west. It attracts attention of new inventors and engineers to fencing by showing that fencing needs and is open to innovations and inventions.”

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