One thing that probably should have been mentioned in this series of Fighter Path posts is that specialization breeds weakness. Any character can eventually pick up most of the Ranged Combat feats (with the exception of Weapon Specialization, of course). The advantage of a Fighter is that through the liberal application of bonus feats, he can make himself into a very well-rounded combatant.

Generally speaking, I would recommend somebody thinking of planning out a Fighter’s feat progression to pick up the ones that prevent or create attacks of opportunity, along with Combat Reflexes. While acquiring those, slowly pick up the feat cluster (such as the Ranged Combat feats) that best fit your character.

You won’t have Shot on The Run quite as soon, perhaps, but regardless of what weapon you have at hand, you’ll be quite dangerous.

you cant keep a good man down

Of course, as a player if I saw an opponent with an expensive-looking repeating crossbow, with an affixed bayonet… I’d probably rush in and sunder that sucker. Your average crossbow is made of wood, and the hardness value is likely quite low :)

also you may want to mention the lovliness of bayonets on crossbows, as they are a very effective weapon when the enemy gets too close for you to draw a weapon without provoking an attack of opportunity. (stabbity stab stab)

however, dont forget the fact that close combat is inevitable, so some feats to help in that department (like dirty fighting, power attack and even improved unarmed strike for those without backup weapons)will lend to your ranged fighters combat effectivness.

back to work.