Weapon choice for early DrCj

[Tristian]

Guys... quick question. I have a Lv11 Purple DrCj going, just finished L2.
I have a Staff of Power right now to use while I wait for my MP to boost up. But I also like having a good melee weapon ready to switch to if things get hairy.
I have 2 choices right now, and I'm not sure which one might be better.

  Code:

the +6 hand axe "Hellblazer" {speed, +Blink SInv}
   (You found it on level 5 of the Dungeon)   
   
   Attacks with this weapon are significantly faster.
   
   It enhances your eyesight.
   It lets you blink.

the +7 dagger "Qiod" {venom, +Blink SInv}
   (You found it on level 2 of the Lair of Beasts)   
   
   It poisons the flesh of those it strikes.
   
   It enhances your eyesight.
   It lets you blink.

Same properties, which is why I'm at a loss. Daggers are faster, Axes cleave. I'm only looking for a backup weapon here.
What do you think?

I'm leaning toward the axe, as the speed brand is always a good thing. But the Venom brand on a +7 backup dagger...?

[radinms]

The +7 venom dagger is better IMO.
In early game, venom brand is good and dagger is fast to use even at skill 0.

[Tristian]

Sounds good to me. Both are sweet finds this early in the game, so I was just so close to actually flipping a coin on them...
Dagger it is. I do like cleaving, but Venom is, indeed, awesome in the early game.