Board Thread:Off Topic/@comment-27144409-20190627122349/@comment-36926079-20190821015241

No, a pistol grip doesn't help with blocking or slicing. A pistol grip allows one to angle the rapier easier, which is why it is used in foil fencing. It would allow for faster, swishy movements and faster stabs due to the extra hand support.

I understand the stylistic choice.