How do you feel about weapon effectiveness?

        Speaking in terms of tactical combat, it seems like daggers in general are a poor weapon unless you have very specialized training in their use. They are a cheap fallback for if you lose your real weapon. To me daggers seems like a very close combat weapon to be utilized when ranges vary. If at spear range a spear beats a dagger, but at dagger range shouldn't a dagger beat a spear?
        It's striking 101 that if your opponent has the range advantage, you close the gap as soon as possible. If you opponent strikes better, then you grab him and negate the strikes.
        Now I know I'm making a sweeping generalization but it paints a picture of weapon ranges. Take an axe, it needs to be swung to make proper use of it, should it not be at a disadvantage to any short weapon in a grapple?