bringing this topic back up.
I'm pretty sure the weapon appearance can be changed. First of all, using "test_character_create" brings up the character create UI (just brings up the UI, doesnt take u into the character create screen) where you can change your appearance and also those preset sample costume sets (ALONG WITH THE WEAPONS and shields).
I also found the number codes in a HFS file for weapons and shields (much like the number codes for costume pieces and sets). So basically, I have the parameters, I'm just missing the cc_change.... part
Also..can weapons be fused? If it can then there is def an appearance code for weapons and shields