Question

[Alphaa]

Definitely throwables. What pikeman is that without the effectiveness of good throwables? CTS is quite fine and will do the job until you're rich enough to get Dragon Breath / Twiggs / Rupts. Though from my practice I find Pilum superior due to faster travel speed that makes precise aiming at higher distances much easier. As it's lighter it also increases your movement speed thanks to lower weightload. The exception is throwing over obstacles where heavier CTS with much more drop can be very useful. I can't compare Warmongers though, never had them.

When you are used to CTS or any other throwable there is no big difference to Pilums besides the damage.

I don't think you should get more expensive throwables, cts are already good if not better than the "upgrades".

I would get: Plated Gaunts > Wall > Barbutte
then save for db or work on another character.

Should do this, probably the best.