I think bungie should implement some raid mechanics like relics and such in their strikes, that way, come raid time, more people will be used to using those items. The hive sword isn't too bad; people can use them in patrols and on the "sword of Crota" mission... And, I have a feeling that's why they implemented the blades mini events, so that everyone can get a go at using swords so it isn't overwhelming in the raid. but the relic only ever appears in raids... I'm usually the sword/relic guy cause it's actually really fun. But even the best of us started not knowing shit about how to do it. All you have to do (as with most parts of the raids) is be vocal and upfront about it and say you haven't done it before. Most people will be cool and let you practice a while, especially if they also don't have experience with it. People don't appreciate it when you enter a raid high level and hope it will smokescreen the fact you haven't been there before. if you're in a fireteam where no-one knows, great! just pick someone and practice, you will get it eventually, it really isn't that hard to get the basics. That's what every fireteam had to do at some point in time.