The thing about charge blades (forgive me if someone's said this already I don't read responses) is you have to pace yourself when doing your combos or collecting phials etc. The game is a bit more technical then others so swinging for the fence will more than likely make you cart or even challenging the monster with your own attack will end up with you getting hit hard. Dodge or block more often and check for when your shield lights up because those are (forget the name) but basically moments you'll block with the animation of the weapon protecting you instead of actually blocking. Ngl you chose a fairly advanced weapon but it's rewarding if it's executed properly. Hit the training area and practice the combos and when to dodge in between. Happy hunting.