Sentinel_assault
No worries! Unfortunatley, I don't have many ships in the Halberd's price range (that are any good at least) for examples, but here's a relatively low priced ship: (200K credits):
As for the second design, I've got a few examples of how to improve firepower and add shields. (They aren't great designs, but they're alright):
Both are 500k, which is cheaper than your Warhammer.
I also have a 750k design that's pretty okay:
As for what weapons to use, that depends. Most are viable, and some work well together. Cannons are generally a good pick due to their damage and piercing, as well as ability to start fires. Lasers work well for longer range and more accurate fire, and work well on diagonal triangle designs. Missiles are great in general, especially in high numbers, but are expensive and can be countered by P/D and flak.
The amount needed just comes down to experimentation. Try to aim for as many as you can support effectively for a certain price, while leaving enough money for the other parts of the ship.