This should indeed be clarified because they are implied to be “equipped” (but in a special slot) and as such one would expect the bonuses to work unless told otherwise.

Speaking of clarifying information about the duelist, the character description should also clarify why the rapier is “unique” so people don’t mistakenly think it’s an endgame equipment like the rogue’s cloak or huntress’s bow.

People don’t think the warrior’s armor is a late game equipment… There really isn’t a parallel here.