Help with Ranger build - please rate

[Ranger of the North]

Hi,

as I'm quite new to Pathfinder, I seek your assistance for building my ranger character. The basic idea is to create a Roc-mounted switch hitter. For early levels (young Roc) I will focus on Buckler, Longsword and Bow. As soon as my companion is adult I want to switch to Composite Longbow, Lance and quickdraw shield. Please rate my idea and give advice

RACE: Half-Elven (dual minded)

TRAITS: Magical knack, Lessons of chaldira

FEATS (in level order): Power attack, Rapid shot, Quick draw, Opening volley, Improved precise shot, Boon companion, Deadly aim, Pinpoint targeting, Bullseye shot, Mounted combat, Manyshot, Ride-by attack, Spirited charge, Parting shot, Indomitable mount

Str: 16(+2)
Dex: 14
Con: 11
Int: 12
Wis: 13
Cha: 09

Thanks in advance

[Krodjin]

Well, first off Roc is not on the Ranger animal companion list so check with your GM first.

Second, I'd probably go pure Archer over Switch Hitter for a mounted combat character - the reason is simple; you don't need any mounted combat feats to use Archery while mounted. Just keep full-attacking while your mount takes single move actions - you won't even suffer penalties to your attack rolls.

Third, if playing a switch-hitter read Treantmonks guide. He puts forth sound reasoning why you should take Manyshot at level 6 instead of Imp. Precise Shot.

4th: I'd put more points into CON rather than INT (unless those stats are rolled - in which case I'd swap them).

[Jodokai]

Assuming you overcome the Roc isn't a Ranger companion problem, I agree with most of what Krodjin says. I disagree with Trentmonk (and Krodjin) about Manyshot. Personally I would take Manyshot over Rapid Shot (same damage, no penalties), but if you aren't losing your mind with excitment about Improved Precise Shot at 6th level, you GM probably isn't big on the ranged rules. I think Quickdraw is a waste, you usually have to move after you switch, or you don't have high enough BAB to hit with follow on shots anyway.

My first character in PFS is a Switch Hitter Ranger, who's level 8 now, so that's where my experince lies.

[Graeme]

I'm currently playing my first pathfinder character who happens to be an archery ranger. I made a mistake when I designed him and didn't give him a CON bonus but took a 12 INT instead. That's really hurting - he's the character that's been knocked unconscious more than anyone else and has twice been close to death from hit point damage. I second Krodjin's view to switch INT and CON - it really does make a difference.

Roc is subject to GM ruling, but since the bestiary does say that Ranger's can take them as companions, I think you should be allowed to have one.

PRD wrote:

Rocs taken as animal companions by druids or rangers are typically newly hatched birds—a baby roc is the size of a person and ready for flight and hunting within minutes of hatching. Unfortunately for druids seeking animal companions of legendary size, an animal companion roc is limited to Large size—still large enough for a Medium druid or ranger to use the flying beast as a mount.