[ister]

" Would I be better off replacing that gnome fighter with a second paladin? I guess it comes down to what is better: draw upon holy might boosting awesome stats or grandmastery in greatswords...??"

This is a complete no-brainer. Grand Mastery is so powerful that you're foolish to forgo it. There is a case to be made for one paladin, but any power party HAS to have a grand master. And a Gnome is one of the best with teh saving throws and the helmet. I prefer axes, but large swords are great too.

"There's hardly any good shortbows in the game."

Messenger of Sseth is an excellent weapon. It's only drawback is the low enchantment, but the extra apr really makes a huge difference. I'd call it the best missile weapon bar none.

As to slings I think the selection is pretty poor. You can get decent weapons for two slingers, but after that you're in troble. The only really good thing about the slings is the strength bonus - they are best used by characters with exceptional strength, or the ability to get it (DoHM).

I think a buckler for a T->M is a pretty good choice. You're not going to do much damage with a bow anyway. In easy fights why bother, and in tough fights you ought to be casting spells. I'll take +1 AC (melee) and carry darts or a crappy sling over the bow.