>Why?

Because I never thought I'd see the day someone thought the hand to hand spec was overpowered. It ranks 6th of 8 in spec chosen. It used to be mainly a utility spec until we tweaked the damage skills a little (pummel, crushing blow). However they still do roughly the same amount of damage as they previously did. As for how well they tank...I honestly don't think we've touched that code in a couple years.

>I still think it's a little odd that hand to hand specs are
>difficult to parry when you're wielding a weapon, and pummel
>by my observations does outdo drum a good bit given both are
>perfected.

Pummel probably has a chance to outdo drum...but overall, the average damage done by pummel hasn't changed since before the skill was tweaked. It just looks prettier to see six hits instead of one big one.

>I can play a bit longer and e-mail you a log if you wish, even
>if they just give you a chuckle and make you shake your head.
>I'm just looking to see rational reasons as to why they can do
>what all they do, as well as they do, and where my argument is
>flawed, misconcieved or generally untrue. It's a rare thing
>that I say "Hey, this might be a little off." instead of
>blaming my own skill or lack thereof, so I was just looking
>for a little discussion on the subject, even if it's just,
>"You're wrong, they're balanced. Practice PK/prep/think a
>little bit more next time you fight the spec."

Honestly, I haven't looked, and right now, I probably won't. There is a reason there are over 100 sword specs, and less than 35 hand to hand specs.

So long, and thanks for all the fish!