Thinking to Grind a Knight

[Tamui]

Title says it all. For some reason the class struck me and I wish to have one.
Now I've searched the forums, read old threads and this is what I have on summary for grinding;

• Skills Knock-Downs as high as you can

• Taunt is useful as it has range, -%Protection and Low Mana usage

• Skill the Weapon tree damage spell and passive(except Dexterity/ Athletic) as high as you can.

Ok, I know that this class takes slow to grind, I'll take a shot at it.
Now I have some questions regarding grinding,war and spells themselves.

Is there a specific tree(Slash/Piercing/Blunt) which is best for grinding?
Should I aim for a fast, medium or slow weapon? Or it doesn't matter?
Which are the primary trees to focus on while leveling?
Should I focus a lot on Stone Temple whilst grinding? How about at war?

Troll Skin. When should I use it? Grinding, war or both? Versus a DoT or just cast it like any normal spell?

I've read somewhere that long time ago, a lot used level 1 spells such as Charge(1) or Gutting(1). I think it was mentioned for war, to have a little attack as a tanker/support. My question is;
Are they still viable? Do level 1 spells do more than your normals. Do you think the difference is huge in damage for a knight to have a damaging spell level 1 or 5?

Apart these questions, any tips/hints you might want to add?


Thanks!