I am a former EPEE fencer. For those not familiar, the epee is a thrusting weapon for competitive use and the equivalent of the dueling rapier. I always used the standard “French” grip which employs the right index finger and thumb. First joint “behind”, second joint below, tip joint in front and thumb on top with the grip end, Pommel, in the lifeline of the hand. With time and practice the blade becomes a 35” extension of your index finger with ALL input/output (feel and direction) becoming as automatic and precise as human touch and reaction can be. That is a #3 pp!