A decent build for an Archer that can also fight in melee is also possible on level 30. It is a heavy hybrid of course, because you dont hit as hard as an Archer who is used to kite or stuff like that.
You know I'm far not the best player but that's not the point to care about. To add something to this archer discussion, this build is amazing for level 30 as you get 6 PD, 6 PS, 6 ATH, 6 WM and 5 IF. At the same time you can have about 160 wpf in Archery or share something in melee wpf as well. Go higher than level 30, be a proper Archer and infantryman at the same time!
Level 30 (4 420 577 xp)
Strength: 18
Agility: 18
Hit points: 63
Skills to attributes: 2
Ironflesh: 5
Power Strike: 6
Athletics: 6
Power Draw: 6
Weapon Master: 6
One Handed: 20
Archery: 155
or wpf put otherwise, as you like
or even a shield instead of IF, and a 1 slot bow
Anyway. The kiting "problem", let's call it like that, doesn't even exist with Archers only. Sometimes there are situations that only ranged units are left over in a round at the end, and then infantry is simple not able to survive if they are getting shot by some Archers and Crossbowmen at the same time (that doesnt mean infantry cannot win, you know!).
I do not support any nerf or any buff and would have never made the bow/xbow/bolt/arrow weight more heavy. I played Archer for half my gens (23 on my main in total) and 5 as Crossbowman.
I see it like Steevee, that's also why I usually retire each gen, not only to adapt to "new changes" but also to have more fun with different builds.
Anyway, the devs decide and until now they did a good job, imo.