Gardow's pixels of knights and dinosaurs - gif heavy

[Shade]

I feel like 3 presents more believable stability. While 2 could be used as well, for it looks more menacing, it lacks the balance that a swordsman/warrior would need to be ready for a fight. And 1 looks a bit too stiff, in my opinion.

I say 3.

EDIT: Although, if you're going for a more weighty looking animation, 2 is definitely your best bet. It all comes down to personal opinion.