I am making a new Human Duskblade at 17th level for a game. I decided on this more than my previous ideas. I used all the best conventional wisdom in creating him (aside from not). The only thing I didn't choose to do was give him a familiar via the Obtain Familiar feat, as I never really see the use of a familiar typically. (I know I can cast touch through them, but don't see much point unless I want to lose my familiar, and I know they give a small bonus to a few skills, or a feat, but unless one gave Evasion, I fail to see the extreme value in that either.)
The big thing I am wondering about is reach. I have Arcane Disciple, (and am struggling between the Strength and Wrath domains.) So I will be able to grow big, though not very often per day based on RAW. (Says they can only be used once per day, Though I still know them so should be able to cast from scrolls and such) In any case, I am prepared to give him a spiked chain for a weapon, however I am REALLY wanting to give him a sword instead. I know I can easily just use a sword instead of the chain, but what I am wondering is how much I will be gimping myself. I can easily see that I will probably be not threatening as many people so I will not be able to channel as many. So I can see how it will gimp me, I just don't know to what extent that will. Please convince me to keep the Spiked Chain, unless you don't feel it is essential.