[Serak Moonblade]

well firstly welcome to this forum!
great to see fresh people in the world of rpg.
browse the site when you get time. you'll surely meet some masters. to start with if you're new to rpg don't conc too much on statistical details. learn to enjoy the game. maybe second time round you could enhance your party and skills.

now for your questions.

1> wands normally have different number of charges. when i played i didn't bother using the wands. i'd thus advise you to sell it off. but try it if you please.

2> the lesser the speed factor the quiicker the weapon. i'd compare the damage first and if they are the same then go for the one with greater speed (lesser speed factor).

3> yes fire monsters take damage from cold spells and vice versa. trolls are particularly susceptible to fire. a couple of carefully placed and timed fireballs could end your troll worries.
4> technically he shouldn't. i've hardly used this tactic. i prefer the open battle field rent with warcry rather than the cloak and dagger methods.
5> starforged IMHO. i used conlans hammer only on golems. that too if i had too. or else i sent one guy to divert their attention thereby having them running all around the place and leaving my guys to tear the place apart.

take care and happy hunting!!