[Gadgeteer Tom]

I prefer the Metal Belt contraption (Invigorating Belt) - and like Superman and Razor Cloak together for my Elementals - with an occasional Heal All as needed...and some Rousing Drums for Haste...

Then even if the Elemental just attracts blows, he can do a bunch of damage (throw in Armormelt and Enchanted Blade / Missile Shield for the most fun). A silenced Death Lord can actually hurt himself fairly seriously with his Giants Sword when he whacks that Elemental.