Armor choice

did u not listen. if your not rich then u WILL BE USING A WIZZY which is an easy 75 res! so use that and a um'ed HoZ and u got like 150 res just there and a um shako and crednum or w/e set mithril coil belt w/ 15 all res u got MAX res and 90 res w/ guardian

Okay, so can I get an upgraded Viper on non-ladder? If so, what will it cost me?

And should I start trading for Offensive Pally GC's? Or what charms should I go for?

No, you can only upgrade exceptional to elite on Ladder.

Okay, so can I get an upgraded Viper on non-ladder? If so, what will it cost me? And should I start trading for Offensive Pally GC's? Or what charms should I go for?

Don't get Pally offensive, get P Comabt, a bit more expensive but better on the long run.