[aesir23]

Any sword can be used in a style that keeps the tip pointed at the opponent at all time and allows quick footwork. So can a spear or staff. Knives and stick weapons are a given.

Personally, I'd allow any balanced weapon to be used in a Fencing style to gain the increased retreating bonus and the reduced penalties for multiple parries.

However, I would impose more penalties that just encumberance. For one thing, swing damage should be capped or penalized. You simply can take full advantage of leverage while keeping your weapon in line.