-Weapons-
Melee Weapons:
Wooden Plank: This is the first weapon you get in the game. Using it is easy, and will deal enough damage to kill the lesser enemies in the game. Don't plan to stop using it fast, though. Conserving the Handgun ammo is more important then using it at first.
Steel Pipe: It's second and not last apperance in the Silent Hill games, the Steel Pipe is best melee weapon in the game. Quick and deals sufficiant damage. Once you find this, ditch the piece of wood. Use it in the hospital till you enter the hell version of it. Then, use the shotgun.
Great Sword: Damage wise, this is the strongest melee weapon in the game. Of course, if you manage to get in a hit at all with it is a merical. Of course, one hit is enough to make most enemies drop dead.
Firearms:
Handgun: This weapon is the one you will be using till the very last boss fight. It has little recolie and holds ten shots per clip. Ammo is found everywhere (more or less), so don't be scared to use it. But, save it for a later level, and use the Steel Pipe instead.
Shotgun: This time, the shotgun is a different model (not the small Sawed-Off from Silent Hill). It still holds six shots, and is usless at a long range. You will find it in the hospital, and will use it most there. If you get in a tight spot with enemies all around you, grab this sucker and fire away to hit many of them at once.
Hunting Rifle: This weapon is the strongest in the game. It will hold four shots, and each one will equle one dead monster. This weapon is best used for bosses, and not to be used like just an everyday weapon. Ammo for the thing is scarce, and even when you find it, you will most liklly have to kill something for it.