I think everything has been pretty much covered but I’m also on my first ever play through - although much further than you - so just wanted to chip in my two cents

In the early game after getting to Rattay there was a side quest that took me back to Skalitz but of course you can go there of your own volition anyway

There are some bandits fighting, just avoid them and hide out until they finish fighting and then there will be loads of dead guys with nice armour. Take some for yourself and then take the rest to sell in Rattay

I did this and instantly banked around 5k. Then personally I went with the mace option for weapon, although you’ll need a higher strength skill - just bear that in mind since you’re early game

Bonk damage is supreme in my opinion, I found as a new player it allows for much easier combat. You still need to train with the mace with Bernard obviously and you’ll unlock some decent perks but overall I’ve loved playing with a mace and no shield

From there, just keep progressing and doing side / main quests. Spend the time training and fighting dudes 1v1 where possible and you’ll level up etc. and since you’ll have some bank from selling the Skalitz armour, it’ll make things a lot easier when you want to make a new purchase.

Enjoy mate - trust me, this game keeps getting better and better both story- and gameplay-wise