Mace vs Fencing

I was just curious about the special moves calculations. I went with mace so I can use the War Hammer for Crushing Blow, and I only get that special hit every so often, and miss my target probably half of the time I swing, while it seems like theres alot of Mages that use Spear that seen to score a Paralyzing blow and does signifiicant damage nearly every hit I take. I don't know how to counter this when I cant move or even drink Pots ,and even with Archery I am seemingly unable to shoot an arrow while stunned. Any Advice?