Ranger or Shadowknight

[Kadron]

So I'm ready to make another alt. I'm a fan of melee but also want to use magic and have decided on these two classes. I already have a 20 Dark elf sk that has a Ring of the Dead, so I'm very tempted to level him up. I'm just not sure if I want to tank.
Ranger sounds fun from all their utility but near end game I'm worried about grouping and not sure how well they do soloing 50+. At least a sk can fear kite.
I have a fungi, rbg and other decent gear. I'm just lacking weapons and need to decide what to buy.

So what I'm asking is your input or persuasion to help my decision.