Mechanical justifcation for fighting with one hand?

[Stalker0]

Only downside is that now I'm finding tons of feats I want so it's starting to make me want to go fighter instead of swashbuckler. >_<

This one's easy, go 3 levels of swashbuckler, because you don't ever need more and then the rest fighter.

 

[nittanytbone]

The advantage to one weapon over TWF is that you don't need to full attack to maximize your style. Your top maximized damage output will be lower, but your standard action output will be higher.

Scout Skirmish damage could be highly useful for a mobile Spring-Attacking one-handed fighter; couple with Swash 3 for INT to damage. Normally duelist and bladesinger are worthless, but for a niche build like this I suppose they could be worth a look.

 

[phindar]

Personally, I like the idea of the TWF, Imp Unarmed, Deflect/Snatch Arrows, Quick Draw, Throw Anything, Wpn Finesse Swashbuckler/Fighter. I mean, why not? You have the rapier, you can always smack somebody with your off hand, and if anyone ever throws a dagger at you, you can throw it right back next round. That's interesting.

 

[Unkabear]

There is also the Cloak Combat Expert from PHBII. It would allow for your to still be one handed and use your cloak for a few things like conceal a weapon and catch a person flatfooted. Or deny them AoO's against a specific opponent. This could save your mage's life in itself.

Though point blank shot, precise shot and quick draw can make a one handed fighter still effective when the enemy is just out of reach. If you are a strength fighter then you can still take brutal throw & power throw and be scary just throwing daggers.

 

[Darklone]

This one's easy, go 3 levels of swashbuckler, because you don't ever need more and then the rest fighter.

Then get that Daring Outlaw (or the other one) feat ... Daring Warrior? From Comp Scoundrel and you'll have your Swashbucklergoodness with fighterlevels.