Can't decide which path to follow, SK, BD, or PR. Here are a few questions.
SK - How good a tank and damage dealer is it. Can I dual-wield and still tank?
BD - I know it's a great party buffer. How much damage does it do and can it offtank with sword/shield.
PR - If I'm soloing and using bow, will I be kiting most of the time?
For all 3 classes, how do they do in random 1vs1 PVP. What are their roles in large groups and sieges.
And any other points to consider.
Thanks very much.
Well, my first bit of advice would be t search around as there are several threads that contain some good info regarding these classes.
However,
SK seems to be a decent tank but has low constitution so less hit points. I beleive they do the most damage of all the thanks due to high strength.
Some people use BD's to tank. I believe they get masteries for dual swords. You want to go with your masteries. Same with Sk. They get shiled Masteries. You will want to use these.
PR? Yes... Archers Kite. The only time you will not kite is if you can kill the mob, everytime, before it gets to you.
PvP? Depends. Too many variables with regards to that. If you are going up against a nuker then probably not too well. Except the PR. They hit very hard. and have range.
With melee, all that has to be done is to get you "slowed" and you will just get picked off. However... in close quarters, melee do have some advantages.
If you do a search on BD or SK or PR you should come across quite a few discussions to answer your questions.
But let me set you straight on these two things...
SK - Can I dual-wield and still tank?
Review all of the skills for the SK. You cannot use many of your defensive skills unless you have a shield. Sure, you can dual wield as an SK -- I did it -- but only to solo and never as a tank in an effective group.
BD - I know it's a great party buffer. How much damage does it do and can it offtank with sword/shield.
BD must have duals to dance. You choose BD because of your ability assist the group (dance), and not because you hope to tank. BD's do pretty good damage in my opinion, especially with the duals, dances and related self-buffs and enemy debuffs combined.