I was planning out my FMT soloist, when I started to wonder why even bother with the mage class. It won't take me long to get UAI, which will let me use scrolls, wands, etc. And there is sooooo much gear that simulates spells. Also, with the faster leveling, I'll be able to get more weapon proficiencies.

Other than losing important mage things like breach and other protection stripping magic, what do I lose by ditching the mage class. Also, how does a FT get around these obstacles?

Thanks.

Let's see--the most obvious drawback is being restricted to only being able to cast spells from scrolls. That means you can cast Time Stop, what, twice in the whole game? And Time Traps don't really cover the gap. Sure, you get more weapon proficiencies, but you only need to know two, maybe even 3 weapons--anything more than that is just extra versatility.

Sure, Fighter/Thief's a good combo, but it's not going to measure up to Fighter/Mage or Thief/Mage.

I've been working toward the same strategem. I have a berserker dualed to thief. He now has a grand mastery of Carsomyr and is working on a grand mastery of Crom Faeyr. He has stolen 4 scroll cases of powerful scrolls, a pouch full of potions and a bag of holding full of wands, I think he is almost ready for TOB, nothing in SOA can really touch him anymore.

My problem is that with all the gear now available to me what would most enhance my Berserker thief's capabilties, any thoughts or opinions.