I want to start making mods for Skyrim, and I figure making armor and weapons would be a good way to introduce myself to the tools. I have a 3D modelling background, although I admit it's been several years since I've actively done anything.

What tools would I need, and specifically, is there a preferred or 'best' 3D modelling program for this? I watched a tutorial that was using 3Ds Max, and it could import .nif files. I'm unsure if an open source 3D program like Blender can do that? Or would I need an external tool?

It's really more whether I should try using 3Ds Max (I can get an education license from my school) or is Blender completely sufficient? I also own a copy of Maya, but it's outdated and I used it mostly for animating rather than full models. I also have ZBrush, but again, it's an outdated and I don't think it can help to do anything for models in Skyrim (would the normal maps generated by Zbrush with the details be usable in Skyrim though).

I'm re-learning some 3D modelling basics as I go (jumped from animation to interactive media last couple of years, so hopefully it's like riding a bike), but I just need to know what are the programs best suited to the job so I get the production pipeline down right. I can probably get access to any sort of program via my art school, or get a license from the office, so it's no problem about cost, just need to know the best and steps I should take.