at 55 when you are fully geared have your dex between 80-120 (experiment for yourself) and the rest statted into strength.
weapons = anything with ee
armor = leather, scale, chain, plate with EE or STR/DEX
charm = stat (dex/str) for main slot. heal charm with ee for the accessory slot.

This post was edited by AF_Warren666 on Aug 3 2010 05:47pm

I wouldn't use axes, simply because they're sill somewhat expensive and few classes can use them and they are far between.

Pros to Swords:
The first 3 classes can use them
High criticals

Cons to Swords :
Expensive
Erratic attacks

Pros to Clubs :
Cheap!

Cons to Clubs :
Few classes can use them

If you wanna spend more money go swords, it'll be worth it.
If not, go clubs just to get the hang of the feeder class, and replay it until you get more experience.

For armor read over the guide to EE Armor
If you plan on using stat armor, it doesn't matter all that much, the more stats the better.

PM me with any more questions