Hello, I am new to the rules so can anyone clarify somethings for me?

Hello, I am new to the rules so can anyone clarify somethings for me?

Hello, I am new to the rules so can anyone clarify somethings for me? I want to know how the items generally function? I am guessing that it will increase the ‘effect’ or ‘potency/quality’ for a particular action? Like say if you have a rope then climbing or rappelling with prowl will be easier (I mean the effect will be better)?

Also, I am wandering how much hitpoints should a enemy gag member have? Like say a Hound is using a fine pistol and taking a shot as close range, I might rule that it has ‘Great effect’. Will I automatically rule that the target is down?