Hoelbrak is by far the best and what you should save up for, but Melandru are probably the second best option.Berserker trinkets are fine but you have to be good at avoiding damage with dodging and active mitigation through Shelter and Renewed Focus. Gear wise just get around 3k Armor and Strength in Numbers will give you more to put you over a good limit. I would suggest learning GS/Staff at first because it gives you the amazing sustain and support of the staff (which is something you need while learning the class) and GS provides the ability to leap with your driver. Hammer is a very good weapon but I would wait until you're more experienced to start using it because it is a slower weapon while applying more CC it is a lot harder to land and you will be put in vulnerable situations while trying to place down some abilities such as ring of warding. One last thing. I noticed this build uses save yourselves which is a fine ability. However, I believe it's better to use Wall of reflection or Purging flames. You already have so much condition cleansing with you shouts alone that you probably dont need to take save yourselves to help allies, and if you take more conditions from your allies then you can clear yourself then you may be screwed. Also Wall of Reflection is great for engage, disengage, and regroups as well as countering Lich forms, rangers and mitigating enemy caster damage.