Quote:
1st lvl half orc with str 20 using a greatclub (5gp)
damage 1D10+7
the same character using a Mighty Comp Shortbow (+5 STR) (450gp)
damage 1D6+5
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Yeah, that's just a difference of how effective a weapon is in the short run and long run.
Sure, the orc starts off with a high strength and a huge weapon, maybe gets a few enchantments and whatnot, but bow users have it better in the long run.
Granted, less damage occurs. This is true. But, it's at a range, not to mention you are usually a long way away from the enemy so you won't be taking a beating unlike the half orc. You have an assortment of cheap but effective at times arrows, the orc only has a single weapon. Not to mention, some of the feats just in the players handbook can give a bow user a higher attack bonus by 20th level than a melee weapon user.
Melee weapon user- Weapon Focus and Greater Focus, base attack +20, 16 average strength, +3. Total 25.
Bow user- Weapon Focus, Greater Focus, Point Blank Shot, precise shot, an average high dexterity of 16, AND a strength bonus of +2 with a composite longbow. Total attack +26 with virtually no penalties under common obstacles.
Now, this isn't to say that bow users are the end all weapons masters. A melee weapon specialist can be just as effective as a bow user, a bow user isn't always 100% less is my point.