The easiest way to get better weapons is through faction rep. The crucible vendor sells a scout rifle called the Saterienne Rapier which is very good. (It has firefly and outlaw) New Monarchy has an auto rifle which is excellent for PvP. (Called the Vanquisher VIII) For Crota, the crucible rocket launcher Valedictorian 9-44 has proximity detonation, which makes hitting him a lot easier. (At least until you get a rocket with tracking) Vanguard weapons are also not bad. The sniper rifle they sell has armor piercing, which is a solid perk. Don't waste shards on VOG armor, as the stuff you can get from vendors is better. Vendor stuff should get you to 31 relatively easily. Lastly, keep an eye out for the exotic bounties. My favorites are for Thorn (A Light in the Dar)k and Bad Juju (Toland's Legacy) Black Ragnarok is an EXCELLENT raider, who is always willing to help. If he organizes a run through VOG, you should be able to beat Atheon and get some good loot.