The epee is a fencing weapon similar to, but larger and heavier than, a foil. Epee fencers are generally considered the laziest of fencers. They are certainly the most sensible (why poke the stomach if the hand is closer?).

Whereas foil and sabre both have rules which state that if one is attacked, one must parry the attack before counterattacking, epeeists simply score points based on who lands the first touch. It is entirely possible for two blows to land simultaneously (I think within 1/25th of a second). This is a double touch. It is the concept that a counterattack is acceptable, and a double touch is possible that really chaps the collective ass of the foil community.

Also, the entire body is a target in epee, whereas foil and sabre are both have restricted target areas. For this reason, the bell is somewhat bigger than on a foil, to protect the hand. Hand touches are fun, especially when fencing someone who primarily fences foil. Fun, that is, to administer; recieving a hand touch hurts, partly because the epee blade is much heavier and stiffer than foil, but mostly because its embarrassing.