all i can say you cant play rangers if most usseles companion in EA outdamage him.
yeah or you dont use the game mechanics to your advantage
even a ranger itself deals more damage by not using a bow. you have funny little bombs, that apply d4 dots aoe even if you miss

a bow cant compete. and you can combine that with little not-bombs, that turn into bombs if the see the slightest spark of fire. and big bombs standing around everywhere. you can ofcause choose to use a stone, instead of a grenade if it fits your playstyle more.
kept shadowheart cause i wanted to beat her story dialogue options. But really, no character is useless in this game, as everyone is an alchemist. At least up to the levels in EA. In later parts of the game when stronger spells and multiattacks kick in, i hope the bomb throwing thing get powercreeped but right now... throw them bombs. you dont need weapons to beat EA if you can find enough of them.