There really is only one weapon type per tier .. meaning there is only one sword for bronze etc so there isn't really anything to figure out there.

The other side of that is knowing the resistances of the enemies.
Blunt damage is probably the most common damage type at this time, or in early game.
Slash damage has some disadvantages for some key enemies early on.
Pierce can be handy as well, while all of they damage types can work, it's just some work better against some enemies.