I'm with GSK.

I start leveling my bow and clubs (mace) and Axe right away.

You have blunt, slash and pierce at the ready for any situation.

I love the tier 4 iron mace with its 70 blunt. It is the best pure blunt weapon in the game. If you swing too early (and miss) you'll often stagger on the back swing anyways setting you up for a solid second shot.