I think you're right, at least on one point - swords need to be made better. Personally, I think they should receive a couple (3) of buffs: 1. Increase base damage by 15%-20% across all archetypes of swords. Swords should have the highest damage - period. Why? Because the requirements for that damage are high - you can't deal it at any range other than melee range, and you are risking the chances of being 1 to 2 shot within melee range to deal it. Also, not all Strike/Raid bosses are going to be susceptible to sword damage, as not all of them can be engaged effectively in melee range. So - the requirements are EXTREMELY HIGH. In turn, the rewards should be as well. 2. Increase Ammo Reserves by 15%, and increase inherent Scavenger perk by 10%. More ammo. These swords need it, especially if they will be primarily used for clearing waves of Adds and Yellow Bars. 3. Grant "Knock-back protection" when guarding. Now, I'm not 100% sure if this is already in place or not, as I rarely guard at all when using my sword for dps. So if this is already in place, disregard. If not, it DEFINITELY needs to be in place. Furthermore, the ammo cost of guarding should be reduced. Again, you're risking point blank melee ranges for this weapon. If these 3 changes were added, I think swords would see a little more play time, at least with certain activities and for certain bosses.