What learning path and tools should a beginner use to create weapon mods?

[EvelynR]

I'm trying to create a simple custom weapon mod for a popular open-world game, but I'm completely new to the tools and scripting involved. I've followed a few basic modding tutorials for importing models, but I'm stuck on how to properly assign damage values, attach unique visual effects, and integrate the item into the game's loot tables. For experienced modders, what's the best learning path from absolute beginner to creating functional, balanced content? Which specific tools and scripting languages are essential to learn for this game's engine, and are there any common pitfalls in the asset pipeline that cause crashes? How do you effectively test your mods to ensure they don't conflict with other popular modifications?