[shovah]

Because it adds survivability, only needs const 2, dosnt rely on your mages randoms (as he can forge them personally) and gives him 2 attacks. Another (better imo) option fo indy smashing is boots of the behemoth (can forge as soon as you have gems) and thats it. 30 prot and high health (for me atleast) allowed him to crush level 9 indies without getting a single affliction (even vrs knights, i would avoid barbarians, crossbows and maybe knights though).