Modding Tools for a Beginner??

I'm a modding newbie. I've been browsing the forums for a couple of days to see what different people use, and I've downloaded some software:

Blender 2.49
Eclipse Classic
Notepad++ 5.8.1
AutoDesk SoftImage
Havok PcXs Content Tools 2010.1.0

Is there anything else I need for this?
First off I just want to change some of existing weapon stats, then maybe try and make some new 3D Models? I'm aware that most of these programs probably have a steep learning curve, but that's not what worries me. It's easy enough to learn how to use software nowadays with all the support one can get online. When I say easy enough you know I mean it's easy enough when you don't mind all the frustration, blood & tears that goes with learning new software.

What worries me is spending hours/days doing something only to find out that a certain file format is not compatible with a certain application, etc. (You know what I mean)

So, is there any other programs I should consider? You will see that the stuff I listed is mostly available for free, I'm always broke.

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Start simple. I recommend sticking with editing some existing XML files. I am worthless when it comes to real scripting and programming, but even I can manage to do this with XML.

I suggest trying some of the great tutorials in this forum. They will walk you through making some common changes.

As for working with anything more complex, there are a few people that have already started producing new weapons, skins, etc. Take a look at what they are doing and using, but it will take lots more work than just changing a few XML values.

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For a free image editing software, grab Gimp. After messing around with Blender, I'd say that unless you have a mountain of time, find someone else to do the models for you. I say this not only because modelling takes a long time to get used to/good at it, but also because its a big pain in the ass to convert your models over now. But, there are some great tutorials available for Blender, so if you really like doing modelling, go for it. I would say to take it one step at a time. Like Goontrooper suggested, start with messing around with the XMLs. It's important to understand them and know where everything is located, and how everything is called in the game before editing everything else. I don't think you needed to get Eclipse AND Notepad. I think they're both editors. I guess it's opinion on which you like better.

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