Post-Balance Patch Chief Bandit Build?

[COLOR="orange"]Technically, Assaulter was always stronger than SB since it does have the ignoring defense trick. Regardless, Assaulter can't replace SB because it isn't as spammable, and it does cause you to move. You'll still be using the SB+BStep combo in 4th job before you attain a decent level Assassinate.
As for your other question, yes, level 1 Meso Guard will be plenty for a long while now.[/COLOR]