ToME: the Tales of Maj'Eyal

I am trying to plan generic points for a shadowblade and I am curious about attack rating. If I invest no points in the combat skill that gives 6 to attack each level, will I be able to compensate with gear in game and still be able to achieve an acceptable hit rate?

Thanks!

Raising dexterity should compensate fully. I usually only put a point or two into that talent, and only if I notice that I'm actually struggling to hit enemies.