Use the secondary attack. If you use the secondary attack at point blank range it returns to your hand instantly, so you can even combo it by opening with the throw and then stepping forward to stab them. If they're below you, use the secondary. If they're above you then just get close and use primary. Even though it doesn't have a base attack combo I find that I can consistently get a higher DPS than other weapons can get because I can attack more often and interrupt enemy attacks, or get more hits in during a parry/stun. It definitely takes more practice to use than other weapons though. You have to teach yourself to always be mindful of elevation when choosing which attack to use.