I tried two versions of weaklings:
One that maintained 40 lb carry weight (except temporary buffout)
One that allowed himself some str through armor, computer, etc.
Big difference. Well, not that big, but big enough to force new tactics. At times I had to carefully control my NPCs at times with a combination of rifle and "attack my target" "stay close to me" combat controls.
BTW: Has anyone tried to play as a married man/woman (without being seperated?) Just doing this normally is difficult. The marriagiable folk on modoc farm (sleep-with-the-farmer's-pretty-daughter cliche) are not able to level. I mean, most NPCs can level a few times, but not once did my wife level up... while I've leveled everyone else up.
Secondly, getting into Certain bases are a lot tougher with a wife around... that is if you're going to do the "manly thing" and protect her. Yep. She can't just "sit here and wait for me." On the other hand, I found out if I pump Myron (mr. anti-science-boy-poster-child-satire-of-what's-worst-in-all-gamers pervert) full of drugs.. buffout, mentats, psycho, but not jet (he hates jet, since he knows what it is really made of). Myron is actually competent in battle. That little Gauss pistol using EC ammo does wonders.