Starting a hunter may be a little trickier than many of the other DPS characters. Levels 1-10 are slow, and often difficult, as a new hunter does not posses many abilities, damage, or defenses yet. In addition, most of the abilities a hunter has are ranged, and not useful once an enemy closes in.
Starting at level 10, a hunter may complete the Taming the Beast quest and obtain the ability to tame and control a pet. Pets can function as a tank and deal extra damage, making the leveling process far easier. New, more damaging weapons such as 2-handed axes can also be learned at level 10.
A hunter with a good pet has the ability to solo everything but the toughest bosses and large groups.