Equipment Repair Checklist:

Prior to a competition everyone should do the basic set of equipment checks to ensure that everything is working.  The two simplest methods are to have your own test and repair kit or to check your gear at a practice session just prior to the meet.  Please remember that Safety Comes First and do not use questionable equipment. Here is a simple guide of what to check for:

Electric Epee

* Test to ensure it supports a 750-gram weight.

        -- Check with multi-meter, score box or test box and an epee test weight.

                == Stretch or replace weak springs if they do not hold the 750-gram weight.

* Check travel springs.

        -- Check travel with an epee gauge or automotive gauges

               == If the travel sets off the tester give the travel spring a quarter turn inwards and re-test. If either of travel or the weight spring is not "cylindrical" in shape straighten or replace.

* Ensure tip screws, barrel, guard socket screws and handle are tight.

              == Tighten all loose parts but take caution not to cut the wires when tightening the handle or barrel

* Make sure the retaining clip for the body wire fits firmly.

* Inspect the blade or bell for rust and corrosion.

                == Remove corrosion with an emery cloth or steel wool taking care to avoid contacting the wire with the abrasive

* Inspect the wire to ensure it is in the groove.

                 ==  Bend the blade and spot glue a loose wire(s) back down. Do not remove a wire unless you are certain that it is broken.

* Ensure a good tight connection of the wire at the guard socket

                == .You may have to clean tips & connections.

* Straighten the blade and remove kinks and excess curvature.

                == Straighten the blade by passing it below your shoe&ldots;. do not attempt to straighten it by bending it in your hand as it may break.

                ==  Remove dents from the epee bell.

Body Wires

* Ensure all connections are tight.

* Check each wire for resistance.

      -- Check each wire with multi-meter for resistance.

                 == Polish connectors with emery cloth or steel wool.

                 == If the connectors have collapsed spread them with a small screwdriver.

                 == If the wire is higher in resistance try reconnecting to the posts with a fresh end on the wire.

* Ensure there are no cracks or breaks in the wire.

      -- Stretch out wire and hold it up to the light to look for breaks if the outer insulation is transparent enough to permit inspection

                   == If the wire is worn, very corroded or has a break in the mid section the wire may need replacement.

* Ensure the wire is soldered to the alligator clips.

* Ensure any screws or fasteners are tight.

Mask

* Visually inspect the mask for dents and the bib for rips, holes or missing rivets.

* Mask will be punch tested and/or visually test as applicable at meets. 

* Mask safety is CRITICAL. If you have any signs of rust, dents or breaks in the bib do not    use the mask until it has been inspected and serviced if required.

* If you have an older mask the strength of the mesh may not be adequate and you need to have it inspected by a knowledgeable person.

* Bibs and rivets can be replaced.