i got reall luck when i first started playing I knew a high level monk that had one in his bank. He let me use it a young level 10 cleric going around smashing undead with this awsome weapon. I actually got real good at 1-handed blunt and have a really high attack skill. I am now level 52. I just recently switched out the smasher. But it was not due to the looks I upped my wis points.
If you look on the mantle of a fair share of castles and masions (movies, PBS specials) most weapons that look good are not worth the metal they are forged with. When I go into battle i dont care if my weapon has rhinestones or pink polk-a-dots or the leaves that have not fallen off of the tree branch. If it can do good damage at a fast pace I'll take the leaves on the branch over mantle shine any day.
thank you
filemoore <Up Out Of The Ashes>
52 High Elf Cleric.