eamon
Explorer
The 8th level monk has an AC of 12. He's going to die. The fighter would be wise to spend more on defense too. I'd like to see Dex 12, Armor of +2, Greatsword +2, gauntlet's of ogre strength +2, Animated heavy shield +1 - which would raise his AC to 24, and his to hit by two ( but if you want max damage output, you'll prefer the flaming enchantment). You can drop the alchemical silver (as it reduces damage by one - get that if the campaign warrants it, otherwise stick to silversheen). If you're really worried about being hit you can drop the gauntlets for rings of deflection and amulets of natural armor. The important point though, is that this character will survive being attacked much better than the monk with fewer hit points and lower AC. I dropped the boots of speed not because they're not useful (they are), but because I image that in many parties the wizard will be able to supply this boost - and to many combatants at a time, to boot.
All in all - I'm not convinced the monk comes close in combat capability @ 8th level.
All in all - I'm not convinced the monk comes close in combat capability @ 8th level.