I, too, think that it is a bit excessive. However, the rules and FAQ are the game. Without them, this is a bunch of painted pewter being pushed around a table while arguments and other objects of varying masses are hurled at players over the rules...or something like that.
Suffice to say that until a rule is changed in the FAQ or through future publication, it is what it is. I cannot force anyone to play by the rule, but I can tell you what the rule is. Ultimately, you may agree with Archer, and play according to those rules, which, in my opinion, weaken weapons that have actual CC stats to mere fists.
The discussion, here, is not whether the rule is in need of change; rather, it is of what the actual rule is.