Low level playthrough build

Ever since I watched Emarrel's entire NG+7 play through at SL1 I've wanted to make my own low level build to see how far I could take it.

I spent forever debating what level to take it to, what weapon to use.. etc. but I finally took the time and created what I think will be a fairly good low level build for coop and may even last through NG+7 (If my nerves can take it that is)

Here is my final result:
http://mmdks.com/qaf

Yes, I'm going to use a chaos/lightning Hand Axe. It can break a lot of poise, does a decent amount of damage, and has a fairly quick moveset.

The armor is up for debate, I wanted to give myself a bit of resistance and poise, but leave a ring slot up for changing without losing my fast roll.

Stats could also be played around with a bit, but Id like to keep my HP over 1400 for later playthroughs when I could possibly be one shot by anything.

Anyway, the point of this is to get any suggestions or comments on my work, as this is my first build character; usually I just level up as I see fit, no limits

Not to self promote, or anything, but here's my guide to SL 1 playthrough. Maybe you can use some info from it.

SL 1 Guide

The only thing I'm not entirely sure about is if the hand axe staggers as well as a club. Tbh I REALLY dont like the moveset on club weapons.. My bread and butter on my usual char is the sunlight straight sword, so I wanted something that would be around the same speed. The wiki lists hand axes as having the same poise breaking power as a club, but i havent tested it. Nor can I until sunday

It doesn't. Perhpas Hand Axes R2 attacks stagger like Clubs R1, but the Stamina consumption doesn't make it justified.
I hate Reinforced Club and all slow weapons. I'm a katana lover, but I can't argue with the results Reinforced Club gives me.

Hand Axe is still, great, but mostly for dealing with fast enemies, like dogs, thieves etc.