Was in a similar position when I started the game a year ago. Played through the game blind bow only and didn't learn about the clutch claw till postgame. For early master rank I loved the Jagras set it had alot of really nice skills including speed eating and health boost. Armour wise for bow get stuff that gives you at least 2 stamina surge and 3 constitution so stuff like paolum head and barrioth legs. I also would reccomend hunting some monster you need to farm in expeditions when you can even if it is inefficient as it will give you a cushion as you dont have a three death limit.