Tactics are very important to playing well in modern fencing and although technique is important in the sport, using an array of tactics will help fencers make the most of that technique.
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The tactical wheel is a visual representation which can help people understand how and when many tactics should be used. It also illustrates how different fencing tactics can be countered[1]. It is also important to think ahead about an opponent's strategy, for expert players, even as far as four moves ahead, while minding your vulnerability to attack. [2]
Composed of one move (a thrust, lunge or fleche), the simple attack is normally countered with a parry riposte parrying (blocking or pushing aside) the opponent's blade and then attacking with this tactic. It can also be countered with a thrust in some situations. They are most effective when the distance between the fencers is small enough that the opponent cannot execute a parry riposte. Often fencers will try to close distance before mounting a simple attack to use this to their advantage. Sometimes, a fencer will make a simple attack and when the opponent parries, the fencer can then make a counter parry and riposte.
The combined attack (also known as the compound attack) can be quite effective, despite its vulnerability to counter attack. A fencer using the compound attack makes a feint, prompting the opponent to parry and makes an indirect attack in response.
Used to draw an opponent closer, elicit a parry, or elicit an attack from an opponent.
A fencer deflects or blocks the opponents blade with their own to defend themselves.
The parry riposte uses the strength of one's own blade to avoid the opponent's. After performing it, the fencer then counters the attack with a combined attack which would force the opponent to parry, allow you to counter parry the opponent's blade, and allow you to penetrate their next parry to win.
A fencer presses the opponent from a safe distance, in anticipation of a simple attack which one would parry or avoid and counter-attack.