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But that is just it... in 5th everything was an option because they did not impact your stats (no Str bonuses) and was AP 2. A power weapon was a power weapon, the type didn't matter. But now you have choices because each power weapon effects a different AP, Init, and stat bonuses.

You have 4 choices of power weapon with at AP 3, +1 Str on the Charge staff/Spear that turns into a Str -, AP 4 weapon otherwise (this is the dog of the power weapons). You then have the good old power sword at AP 3 but no other effects. You strike at Init and you pen the most common armor in the game but with no Str bonus. Kind of a eh weapon to me. You then have the best two with the Power Axe at Ap 2 with a +1 Str but is Init 1 and a Ap 4, +2 Str Maul with Concussive.

The real benefit of power weapons is getting +1 attack from a pistol. Personally I feel the best two weapons right now are a Power Axe and a Power Maul, because your options are hit them as hard and often as you can on your Init and force them to make armor saves before they swing that Power Fist or have the ability to survive till Init 1 due to armor, mass of bodies, or Invuln saves to swing at Init 1 and ignore their armor.

As for Eldar vs Nids, Maul all the way so you keep your Init 6and turns you into Str 5. Your already allowing them the armor save if your other option is Spear, so you might as well use the weapon that allows you a chance to wound them.

Yep, Crusaders with Power Axes and Death Cult Assassins with PM/PS is the way to go!