As an aside, the first time I learned of the "standard activation to ignite a flaming sword" rule, it really annoyed me. But the more I think about it, the more I'm okay with it. You're usually only going to have to turn it on once, when you first start down into the dungeon/caves/crypt/etc. Then it's on for the whole time, no fuss, no mess.
But occasionally, you're going to get caught in a compromising position. You'll be attacked while you're sleeping, or ambushed at the dinner table, etc. In such a case your weapon will require some time to charge up to full power, just like your armor will most likely need to be put on. Or you can go without in both cases.
I think I just like the idea of every so often having to fight at less than peak efficiency. It changes things up, and makes for a more diverse story.
Of course, you can get armor enchanted with the Called special ability, so I may introduce a similar ability for weapons in my next game. Rapid Ignition or some such, that for a flat gp fee allows a weapon to be activated as a free action.
