I have been playing a while with the Hand Axe and I must say it's awesome when used for PvP. The HA has about ~300 AR with +30 Str, it's weak, but it shines when used with a buff. With Sunlight Blade, I'm doing about 300~400 damage per chop on SL 120.
Almost everyone uses Dex weapons because of the DWGR invincibility frames and lag. These weapons usually connect because of their speed. The HA is the fastest Str weapon in the game. If used with a shield, it becomes a scary and unpredictable weapon. I do not recommend using this weapon without a powerful secondary one. Once the buff runs out, the HA does about 150 damage. So this weapon is perfect for hybrid builds that use unique unbuffable weapons such as Grant, MLGS, DSS and others. Pure Str builds could benefit too when used as a finisher weapon, just make sure your opponent has low HP and chop them off!!!
Almost everyone uses Dex weapons because of the DWGR invincibility frames and lag. These weapons usually connect because of their speed. The HA is the fastest Str weapon in the game. If used with a shield, it becomes a scary and unpredictable weapon. I do not recommend using this weapon without a powerful secondary one. Once the buff runs out, the HA does about 150 damage. So this weapon is perfect for hybrid builds that use unique unbuffable weapons such as Grant, MLGS, DSS and others. Pure Str builds could benefit too when used as a finisher weapon, just make sure your opponent has low HP and chop them off!!!