2.10 Points

     Many fencers have experienced trouble mixing their points,
     barrels, and wires.  They are best used in matched sets.

     Points are regularly tested in competition.  Both foil and epee
     points must pass a weight test, by lifting a mass (500g for foil;
     750g for epee) after the point is depressed.  In addition, epees
     must pass two shim tests, the first to make sure that there is at
     least 1.5 mm of travel in the tip, and the second to make sure
     that the point doesn't light until the last 0.5 mm.

     If the weight test fails, the main spring can be replaced or made
     heavier by lightly stretching it.  If the fencer thinks his point
     is too heavy, the spring can be replaced, compressed, or softened
     by heating one end in a flame.

     If the epee 0.5 mm shim test fails, the secondary contact spring
     is too long.  It should be adjusted or compressed.  If the 1.5 mm
     shim test fails, your point may be improperly set up, or may be
     mismatched with the barrel.

     Epee points work by closing the circuit between the two blade
     wires when they are depressed.  Dirty or faulty points will
     normally cause the weapon to fail to register touches.  Foil
     points work in the opposite manner, by opening a closed circuit
     between the blade wire and blade.  Dirty or faulty points will
     usually cause the weapon to produce spurious off-target lights.
     See Troubleshooting (sections 2.13, 2.14), below.