Simple Q&A (by RAW) 4e/Other Systems I

[Arakune]

Unless a power states that it requires the main-hand weapon or the off-hand weapon, either weapon can be used without penalty on an attack. Keep in mind that, unless you have a feat or ability that states otherwise, you can only use weapons with the "off-hand" property in the off hand.

There is no penalty for attacking with the off-hand weapon, but you may not wield an additional weapon for additional attacks (even at a penalty).

Thanks for the help.

I will make a new thread for the more subjective aspects of this question, though.