At the end of my Empire game, I had all weapons techniques unlocked, and I will list the basic units I used.
Archer: Longbow and Leather cuirass.
Militia: Battle axe, Chain shirt, and padded helm. Used for defending cities only
Infantry: Trog scimitar, Chain shirt, and Heavy steel helm. Bulk of the military, cheap and effective.
Knights: Master heavy armor-full set, Great Scimitar, Worg, and medical pack. Expensive, but pretty much unbeatable units.