Assassin Build

[bigeyedbug]

  This way, you can use dual claws for an extra AR bonus (get a Fool's claw in your off hand),

I would love to get AR bonuses (as well as others) from the off-hand claw. Unfortunately, all the information I've seen implies that weapon mods (AR, ED, PMH, CTC, CB, yadda yadda yadda) from the secondary claw do not impact BF while personal mods do. (+Stat, Resist, +Skill, MF, yadda^3) My own experience with 1 L81 BF Assassin backs this general idea up, as well as some amount of dedicated testing. Admittedly, I have not tested +AR specifically. If you are certain off-hand AR is taken into account, I would enjoy hearing about the source of your certainty.

Also monster regen can be circumvented not only by PMH or long-duration poison, but also by Open Wounds--for 8 seconds, at least. While I thought you made a good point about the disadvantage of Venom, it's damage is pretty darn useful in Hell if one can get around the regen issue.

I hope my tone doesn't seem condescending. It is obvious to me that you have much more experience with this game than I do.

Oh, and one hint for the original poster: A Malice weapon can be a great choice all the way through Nightmare, especially if you have AR issues. My untwinked Assassin used hers all the way through Act I Hell.