go tracker instead of archer then. you'll be more reliant on staying in battle, it can help you learn to chase, and you can learn a good deal about rare vuln weapons (useful for later knowledge as thieves, ninjas, and yes...bards)
the real downside to a dark-knight is, they are a more stealthy class than other melees (ability to put opponent to sleep, various mals and afflictive). a ranger is still very reliant on consumables, herb does have a hefty timer to it, and you need to learn about sanc and other things anyways to aid your pets.
rangers also have a much easier time at their lowest than dkns b/c they have accesss to pets and archery, which can give them a slight advantage.