I have been using a sword and shield since day one but I see the high level people using axes and Spears should I switch?
The benefit of using an axe or hammer is that you can use Rupture, which is considered the best damage skill for a warrior. You can't use it with a sword or spear.
If you want to maximize your damage output (and you have the Rupture skill), changing to an axe (or a hammer) would probably be a good option. I wouldn't really recommend using a spear unless you are a higher level and have access to a good endgame spear - even then, they aren't usually the best for damage, since you can't use Rupture.
I'd also recommend trying to get a luxury shop damage offhand if possible (though they are quite expensive). A shield is a good option for an offhand, but a damage offhand will probably be more helpful in the long run.