← Back to martial art

General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Bâton de Joinville is the French military two-handed staff fencing system codified at the Joinville Military Gymnastics School in the 19th century for the French Army. The 5-level hierarchy from Élève recruit to Maître d'Armes evaluates two-handed staff rotations, sweeping cuts, bayonet-drill thrusts, and combat fencing.

1st Level – Élève

Eleve BatonRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Gripping 1.4m ash Bâton staff, military stances, and basic Joinville Battalion strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

French military gymnastics and staff fencing founded at Joinville Battalion in 1852.

2nd Level – Moniteur de Bâton

Moniteur BatonRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Fluid hand switches on the staff, combined strikes, and drilling military recruits.

Symbolism & Meaning

Certified military instructor of the French army physical training academy.

3rd Level – Professeur de Bâton

Professeur BatonRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Combat against multiple attackers, merging staff with Savate kicks, & tactical fencing.

Symbolism & Meaning

Advanced professor of military staff fencing and Canne de Combat.

4th Level – Maître d'Armes

Maitre d'ArmesRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full master rank. Directing fencing department at Joinville & officer certification.

Symbolism & Meaning

Maître d'Armes = Official guarantor of French military fencing heritage.

5th Level – Inspecteur de Bâton

Inspecteur JoinvilleRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest inspector rank. Methodological guarantee and research of French staff.

Symbolism & Meaning

Inspecteur Joinville = Living legend & chief methodologist of Joinville School.