[IronDragon]

I would go with short bow for one reason: Tuigan Bow

It is available from almost the start of the game and the initial 3 shots per round is devastating to most critters and bad guys. With even a few proficiently points in short bow the number goes up and if you add improved haste it turns into a machine gun. The real trouble you will have is keeping a supply of arrows.

It is always good to have a melee weapon handy. The penalties for fighting melee with a ranged weapon are real and can be hurtful. As for what kind…well that would depend on your party and what you plan for them to use. Don’t take a great weapon away from your tank just so your archer can use it a half dozen times. Since your archer won’t be using a shield a two handed weapon would be a good choice. Halberds and spears have a good potential… few NPC’s specialize in these and the are some good ones out there.