| I didn't use stoneskin because i'm aesthetically inclined, and I really don't care much for the retextured appearance of stoneskin.
I make up for that with damage reduction gear. Not saying that it's the only way.
Things to note:
Familiars: they are good to use in the classic campaign and Undrentide if you are maintaining at least even standings with your caster/melee classes, or have a higher caster level. I've noticed in HotU that despite stoneskin and Flaming Weapon (yes, you can Flaming Weapon your familiar ;p which was what made him rock earlier) that the familiar tends to run off and die too often.
Summons: I have never, ever really used a summon spell. I have always presumed the summons that I get as a hybrd will be too sub-par to expect anything out of it. I will likely take Summoning VI and get the tiger to see how it fares.
Henchmen: the best and worst part of the class is being able to pick any two henchmen you want. I went through Undrentide with the dwarf (who was a hybrid cleric/rogue), and went through the early stage of HotU with Deekin (I get a kick out of this guy) and the half-orc.
One last reminder: know when to run. You may be relying heavily on healing kits and potions, and supplies can run low fast with two or three 160hp+ characters. Run away, rest, return and kick butt. Trying to recharge that Rod of Ressurection in HotU can cost an arm and a leg that could go to upgrading your gear.  |