What I can tell you is that the fights I'd need aura+shield for with a 0 charge weapon would still go south without aura+shield but a 30 charge weapon.

Some classes (such as paladins) come out pretty strong without super gear or preps, other classes (like antipaladins) are pathetic without preps and gear but can be even stronger if you put in the legwork to gather the necessary preps and use them at the right times.

I'd say PK success is as much about what your character does out of combat as what they do in combat. Guys who guildsit then wander down eastern will be cut to pieces by guys who are out there spamming and gathering preps while the first set is guildsitting waiting for someone to group with.