DB,
Yes, many people can eat a strike or two.
And by rushing in you get most of the people who target long range to have to re-target you. and usually have to move.
Those who are used to CCB with a handheld weapon just drop the elbow and shorten the range. Body shifting and angling, and maybe a leg drop / step back is in order as well. As all things can vary from situation to situation.
If they are not really trying the hurt you, then you have a higher chance. Try it with a total noob who has no idea how they could hurt you. Tell them it is ok . Wear a helmet, and acknowledge the impact if it occurs.
I am not saying you and your experience can't pull it off on many or most.
And I will be honest as I prefer CCB range and I am approaching unarmed and telling them to not swing on me or I will take it from them and show them how to really use it. *It being a bat, tire iron, golf club, cane, insert other device here*
So yes I am sure DB can make it work . Is it something one can teach to the average person to be used against the average person.
I mean this as to say you know enough to understand when NOT to shoot in and eat the shots.
My point is that if the person with the weapon doesn't care about the safety of other person, they can do great bodily with there strikes.
No The weapon is not unstoppable.
I would not empty handed try to do a single or double leg take down on a known BJJ or MMA ground fighter. I would go with my strengths and try to avoid theirs.
PS: I like your mindset