However I have heard it remarked by PHs once or twice, why do clients bother bringing a knife at all?

One PH rudely also said, clients don't even need binoculars, all they need is their rifle, ammo and scope etc, and know how to shoot.

I think some of these guys confuse that many of us go there to hunt, would hunt there without a PH if it was possible and legal (and practical). And we are not there just to be led by the hand and told to shoot when they think so. Not just there to collect bragging trophies for the wall.

I enjoy the actual hunt more than the kill. I enjoy a challenging hunt more than an easy one. At least afterwards.

As for knives, I think the Sikhs have it right, they are part of being a man.