I have a +2, +17% Lightning. Not quite the +3, but still better than Hoto is. High runes are Um only if the person wants them. Otherwise, disregard it. A good Eschuta's goes for 5 or more.

Nom, I think he's making a Lightning Sorceress. Also, I think Mulley may have an Ormus' Robes that I gave him. The +skills is on Telekinesis, but it's still got +percent damage. Also, CtA is a 5Os Runeword, not 4Os.

Mercs don't need CoH. Their resistance is already high enough with Fortitude. Your merc, however, will benefit the most from Infinity, not Insight as is the case with most spellcasters. This is because all enemies with Lightning Immunity can have it broken in Diablo II, and those enemies with Immunity are not often, either.

Also, his belt and gloves should play the same function as his boots, unless he has Arach's, simply because this is both a popular item, but it has a low supply. However, most will go with Magefist or Teang Oul's for the FCR and resistance on Trang.

Charms should cover whatever it is that you lack, or mass Lightning skillers.