i cant seem to change the weapon my character holds when creating my character


Also is there a key mapping listed anywhere?

The Forgotten Realms Collection is a bunch of different games, so you will need to specify which one you are having the issue in.

If you are referring to Pool of Radiance (and other early gold box games):

During character creation, when you get to the icon screen press P (for Parts) then W (for Weapon) then N or P (for Next and Previous), then select K (for Keep) when you're happy with your selection. Note that this only changes the look of the character's battlefield icon, it doesn't actually change what weapon they are holding.

The characters start with no weapons or armour, you will need to buy them in town after starting the game, and then choose the View menu > Items > highlight the desired item and select Ready.

Although there is not a complete key mapping listed, there are hints in the "reference card" in the EXTRAS download section.