Newbie Paladin new to EQ altogether (Intro and question about early gearing)

[Vaz Deverence]

Heya all, just getting started in P99, IGN is Lawmay

A little background, I never played EQ back in the day. EQOA on PS2 was my game (mained a Pally), sadly SOE shut it down back in 2012, I know alot of people hate on it, but it was fun to me.

Anyways got the Norrath itch, specifically in a more "classic" form, so this seemed right up my alley.

Definitely a big transition getting into this especially coming from newer MMOs but I'm enjoying the slower Grindier nature alot, missed the true "sandbox" style.

Anyways, any tips in general or specifically for a paladin are appreciated. I'm currently only level 4 but I've managed to farm up 13 stacks of bone chips and even one HQ bear skin, I'm currently trying to sell them in the tunnel, only a matter of time :).

Once I do, what should be my first priority? I'm thinking either a decent weapon or a set of banded. Also any suggestions as far as "Best bang for my buck" weapons go?
I should mention I have a very busy schedule as I work 100 hours a week and have a fiance who is...hmm what's a nice way of saying co dependant :p... So this will mostly be a solo character. I know Paladins aren't the fastest soloers, but I'm in no hurry, I'd rather progress slowly with a character I want to play rather than quickly on one I don't.

Thanks in advance and Hello :)