For really solid early equipment the Skalitz Axe is your best bet, found in the camps northwest of Troskowitz near the lake - just watch for bandits patrolling the area. When you spot archery targets between Troskowitz and Tachov there's a dirt path leading to the Dogwood village bow, which handles perfectly for early ranged combat. The real timing trick comes with melee weapons since you'll want to visit the Tachov blacksmith for a Basilard dagger, or if you're doing Mutt's questline you can grab that sweet Broadsword near his area just time your approach when the guards rotate

For armor you'll need to be a bit strategic at first since the good stuff is locked behind story progress and gold requirements. The camps around Troskowitz usually have decent basic gear on their guards, and if you're careful about timing you can take down isolated bandits for their equipment. Something interesting about armor layering - mixing chainmail under lighter pieces actually works better than trying to match complete sets early on just make sure you're watching your noise level and movement speed when combining different weights

When you're ready to upgrade the Kuttenberg area has the premium gear but you'll need serious coin saved up first