They are considered gone, as there are no other ways to earn them in the other realms. However, if you want to swap out or respec with some of the other starting equipment, I don't see any harm in trying it! You want to find that build that's the most fun for you before you dive deep.
Thanks so much for the quick reply! To be honest, I like the finality and hardcore approach - part of me really does want to see this character push through a bit more, so I'll persevere before 'starting a new save' XD
Ooh one more question if you don't mind: when you die/rest, only the fights are reset, correct? I'm wondering if search actions that yield consumable items are once-off, which my gut tells me they are.
(Mild spoilers for The Grim Coast below)
My character has: Great Axe, Basic Shield, Strider Boots, and Fate's Hunter. Pretty slow and needs a lot of good rolls! 2 points of Lore but my max health is at 8 now for reasons I'm sure you know...absolutely getting wrecked by the harder enemies I met and kinda loving it. Thanks!