Should new Muslims not be open about their weaknesses to avoid harsh criticism, or might discussing these openly be seen as concealment or an excuse, or as helping non-Muslims in their attacks on Islam?

Islam has no weaknesses. The religion was perfected with its unequivocal texts. What some perceive as a deficiency or weakness stems from a flaw in their understanding. It is not permissible for non-specialists to delve into legal rulings, as their correct understanding is rooted in the well-grounded scholars through whom Allah preserves His religion and exposes the specious arguments of the fabricators. Therefore, Muslims should seek religious knowledge to refute specious arguments and call to Allah with insight.