Fencing swords NYT crossword clue

The answer to the clue “Fencing swords” is **epees**.

Épées are one of the three weapons used in the sport of fencing, alongside foils and sabres. Characterized by their heavier weight and stiffer blades, épées allow points to be scored with the tip anywhere on the opponent’s body. The plural form “epees” frequently appears in crosswords due to its useful combination of vowels and consonants, making it a go-to fill for grid constructors.