Why Maraging Steel Is Used in Fencing Blades

A common question among fencers

Anyone who practices fencing has probably asked themselves why maraging steel is used in the manufacture of fencing blades.

A special steel for a demanding sport

Without aiming to be too technical, the following general guidelines will help us understand the reasons. Fencing is a sport that requires blades specifically designed for competition. Maraging steel is a material commonly used in several industrial sectors, such as:

• automotive;
• aerospace;
• ballistics and weapons;
• machine tools;
• medical devices.

...and in many other fields, including the production of fencing blades (épée, foil, and sabre).

Composition and properties of maraging steel

Maraging steel is a metallic alloy made primarily of iron, chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. It is a high-resistance steel alloy that offers an excellent combination of:

• fracture resistance,
• hardness,
• corrosion resistance,
• toughness.

It is strong enough to withstand blows, yet flexible enough to avoid breaking or chipping. It is also light enough to be handled easily and resistant to wear — all characteristics that make it an ideal material for fencing blade production.

Durability and workability

Maraging is highly corrosion-resistant, which means that fencing blades made from this material do not deteriorate easily, ensuring a high level of safety during competitions. Another feature of maraging steel is its ease of machining, allowing blades to be shaped into a desired form or design. It can also be easily polished to achieve a fine finish — an aspect that some brands tend to highlight even from an aesthetic perspective.

Low maintenance and high reliability

Because it is a corrosion-resistant material, fencing blades made from it do not require constant maintenance, making them ideal also from a practical standpoint.

Conclusion

In summary, maraging steel is the ideal material for the production of fencing blades. The only downside is its cost, which can significantly impact the budget of athletes.