A couple of classes and gear questions

[Shadewe]

Hello all,

1) Thinking of making a Warrior. Are they playable without a shield? E.g. if I wanted to use a 2H weapon or 2x1 handed weapons, is that doable? Or, are they expected to be a tank only? I know there are other classes (rogue, monk) that might do it better, which is why I ask. Does race matter for them a lot?

2) It is wise to spend plat on low level gear? For example, my cleric has nothing on the face and secondary yet, and I was debating spending a little plat to get something. Is it worth it or hold off? Is there a gear by lvl guide? I found a gear guide but it has everything, and I can't afford 99% of it.

Thanks in advance.