What is the best warfighting tool set for the brawling skill?

[Engurrand]

Originally Posted by Varyon

While I'm not thrilled with the way it works out, you can still claim the DB for a shield even if you lack any skill in using one. So, you can strap on a medium shield for a free(ish) +2 to Dodge and Brawling Parry.

This is what I had in mind in suggesting a shield. Also, IIRC you can shield rush with the brawling skill. While shield rushes are subject to some situational funkiness, they -can- be a good way to knock people down so your allies can stab them.
Personally, I would allow a Brawling shove with the shield, and I'd even permit a bash but at -2 to skill for an improvised weapon. Not raw, but I'd allow it.

I like the Katar idea. Lots of quality musings in this thread.