[Dantes]

I think Obsidian Shards are definitely worth it. If you can't afford two, just one for your main hand will make a big difference. Obsidian Shatter is nice, it's like having bonus critical hits. Gnoll Hide Lariats are just so low dmg. But you're a tank, you aren't supposed to do damage, they say. Well, if you are doing decent damage output and you are also tanking - you are more valuable to a group. Don't pay 500-600pp for it, you can find one for 400 if you look around.

I wouldn't suggest getting a 2H slasher as your primary if you can only afford that by itself - groups will hate you. Usually I don't have the luxury of being picky about grouping with DPS. Besides, those are the fun groups to be in, mobs drop fast. I've got an Axe of the Slayers, once I hit 30 I'll probably use it more often - but most likely in either solo situations or in camps with blue mobs I can actually taunt.