Stalker before is not really High damage dealer before, they had this Demi-human reduction on their bow which makes em flexible.
But it was removed due people forums suggested to removed it tho i don't see the point why, they don't even do damage. o wells its impossible put it back now coz of blessed accessories and some other stuff
And yes, You need proper equips to deal a good damage. Let's say for Bow type, you'll be need atleast Freyr's Gauntlet, Bless Ring, Soaring Bird.
As for Guardian build, You'll be needing Guarding Ring, Bjorn Sword , Loki's Seal/Cursed STR, 3x amdarais/Bijou card