Attack (fencing)

[1] In order for an attack to be awarded successfully, the fencer must accelerate their hand towards the target.

The purpose of an attack is either to make a hit or to provoke a defensive reaction.

A fencer launches an attack by extending his weapon-carrying arm in such a way that the point threatens the opponent's target area (except in sabre where the blade need not be threatening the target when the arm is extended, the right of way can still be given).

He retains this priority until his attack either misses, falls short, is withdrawn, or is parried.

Any attack may be prepared by footwork (e.g. a step forward to bring you within range) or by bladework (e.g. a beat intended to upset your opponent's control over his weapon, draw a convenient reaction or confuse him into inactivity).