i used splitting arrows almost exclusively. there were a couple places i used ethereal also, but 99.9% of the game, splitting was it.
yes, i tried all other types too.
you absolutely want to put a couple points into 'point blank'.
here is a replayed monster, 3 ways. 'at
distance ', 'close
withOUT point blank' and close
WITH point blank.
the damage difference is 66 points at dist., 55 close WITH, and 35 close withOUT point blank. these shots were taken early on in the game and point blank matters more as you proceed.
my archers ending skills were (44 skill points): piercing 12; critical hit 12; reload time 12; point blank 4; splitting arrows 4.
with a good bow and good agility you'll kill everything.
set your archer to 'aggressive', non-leader.