I think it really is balanced,not pricewise.. If any melee has the upper hand with the "right" gear that is. I think melee has the upperhand mainly in terms of armor. Armor is a biggie when it comes to combat,offence isn't everything (yet i have 1 defence) :). But i think Full Bandos, Whip,Dragonfire shield and Nietzot would stand a fighting chance against someone with Amardryl and rune crossbow. Now thats high leveled. When it comes to 1 defence pvping its a whole different story. The factor of timing gives pkers an advantage for both, the ranger and the meleer. They both can average in good hits and specials. So when it boils down to 1 defence pking I think they are both balanced and one of the main factors is well, the player. PvE. Now They each have there ups and downs and i can honestly say they are very well balanced. In other words i recommend training both. Well thats it from me for now haha 8-)