Actually... the 'weapon' you get at the start is the torch. Finish the first 2 quests before you jump down, repel enemies in a circle arround you. If they are zombies or creepers, you can easily 'hit and run' even tough that wet noodle of your fist might take a while to kill it.
I've restarted a few times but never had real problems reaching the savespot.
Well I understand the torch repels enemies, but a cheap weapon would be nice. Honestly a simple wood sword at the beginning isnt going to break the whole experience. It would at least give you a slightly better chance at surviving til you reach that pit.