Weapon Level 8 to avoid people with fully upgraded weapons. (Matchmaking with people at Weapon Levels 3-14)
Use Longsword / Estoc / Rapier / reinforced club / Zweihander. Can use most basic weapons with 16 str and 12 dex.
Swap to Dark Wood Grain Ring / Hornet ring if you want.
Swap to Havels Ring + Giant armor for heavy defense midrolls.