Cub could check where the bosmer suggested their confiscated gear is located, otherwise the battlefield is filled with all manner of discarded weapons. It wouldn't be hard for Cub to find himself a new blade in the melee. :P

As for the weight of weapons, lighter is always better. I know Skyrim likes to tell you that swords, axes, and hammers are all different speeds, but the ultimate factor is the weight of the material and the mass of it. Someone comfortable with a hammer would be right at home with an axe, I'm sure.