Evil Thief Dual Class: Mage or Cleric, and what Kit?

[Deleted User]

So for my next character I've decided to roll up a dual class thief, but I'm undecided as to whether to go Mage or Cleric, and whether to go Swashbuckler (Bonus AC, better skill points, specialization) or Bounty Hunter (A few special traps and backstabbing). If I start Swashbuckler I'll probably dual at 10, if Bounty Hunter, probably at 13 to get 5x backstabbing. Either way, I'll cap out my spellcasting progression for either class.

So what are the pros and cons of thief/mages and thief/clerics, and should I worry about backstabbing?

szb

I highly reccomend reading this guide: http://www.gamefaqs.com/pc/470765-baldurs-gate-ii-throne-of-bhaal/faqs/27550
Lots of good info about thieves there, also has sections about the dual classes if I recall correctly.

[Deleted User]

Thanks for the link! He doesn't get into much detail on duals from thief to another class, but after thinking about it, I think I'll try Bounty Hunter -> Cleric, if only because I've never made use of the Human Flesh armor before.