what would be cool option when in soulbeast mode is if your second pet became soulbeasts pet seeing how you don't have the option to switch between the 2 while in soulbeast mode. The having to stand still during off hand axe makes axe very difficult to use in wvw and pvp. better off with torch i think. as yo get get knocked down often. not sure how soulbeast improves dagger usage. i thought while in beast mode the dagger would excel but haven't found right combination for dagger yet. maybe a condition damage pet merge would be best! hmmm
one thing is for sure if your using dagger and torch wilderness survival specializations is best i think. i also think it maybe best in pvp and wvw for close range combat or with skirmish instead of wilderness survival sword with axe. i also think some pets work best with certain core specializations. Fanged iboga for instance would do well with Wilderness survival because it is more of a condition perks pet. i think knock down pets are good as well as the poison focusing pets. just my thoughts
for druid, natures magic, markmaship , staff , long bow or short bow, definetly doesn't seem to be a close range player at all but more of a healing protecting player with long range options.
i think you can only pull off long range and short range weapon skill in Pve