Traditionally, beginners start with the foil to learn a base of technique and tactics. Foil contains many elements which translate directly to the other weapons, and very few elements which do not translate at all. However, beyond the beginner level, epee is very unforgiving of technique mistakes. A small technical mistake can provide the opponent with an opportunity to score. We recommend that beginners learn foil for several months before trying epee.
Many fencers compete actively in more than one weapon.
However, it is difficult to become good at all three because of differences in techniques, tactics, and distance. We recommend that fencers choose a weapon to specialize in and only fence multiple weapons after a year or two of experience.