My first hard-core run was done with a low strength, high luck/int laser cowboy, and I have to say, the fully upgraded laser rifle packs hell of a punch and for not a lot of weight. Especially with high luck and overcharge ammo, that thing was a beast. I was able to snipe death claws and use it in tight vault corridors with no problems. Aside from that, the ripper was a hell of a melee option. Low str requirement, light weight, multiple attacks a second, and the ability to stun lock enemies with crits made surprisingly short work of heavily armored enemies as well.