I'm a lone pirate (no guild), so I stock up on tonics and make sure I have everything else I'll need (ammo, etc.).
I always use my pistol on Jolly. That way I don't need to get to close!
And I always revive pirates that are down as soon as I possibly can.
I just don't understand it when I see pirates standing around not doing anything at all. Not shooting, not reviving anyone. Why are they there then?
My motto is is you are there, take down as many as you can and help your fellow pirates. You never know when you're going to need to be revived! Just my opinion.