Creating a low point ST-based ranged fighter

[malloyd]

My personal favorite low TL ranged weapon is the sling. It's lightweight, cheap, logically more concealable than the Bulk penalty implies (though it's reasonable for the Move and Attack use), and with lead bullets only slightly shorter ranged than a bow and depending on your ST may do a point or two more damage. And if you run out of ammunition, it's still a functional weapon with small rocks. Ask the GM what his feelings are on throwing specialty things like that acid or holy water with a sling are too.

Kiai is an option if you can get it without paying for all up Trained By A Master - and perks like Special Exercises that allow that have gotten fairly common. It's not terrific - it's basically a resistible short duration stunning spell - but if you aren't a spell-caster, or want something for those inevitable no mana zones....

For a social specialist, Intimidation gets a number of combat applications somewhere in the DF line.

Being useful before the fight starts is a pretty good niche for a smart but less combat capable character - Tactics, Camouflage, Traps, whatever lore skill you use to know monster habits and weaknesses - and of course First Aid for afterward, but does tend to leave you standing around during the fight.