John, great info thanks mate, very helpful. You too Fred!

Re the first point - "IMO no matter how hard you try the first time you will never get it quite right".
I figured that, just like building a house. That's why I thought 'just find somewhere reputable, dream up a list and go'. No better way to learn!

Re point 12 - I too like the look of the Lowveldt as it's just seems to me what Africa 'should' be like, and the thought of bashing through thorns all day isn't that appealing. What areas of SAF do you have in mind mate? I know the Eastern Cape or KZN seem like the go for low-fence hunts...

Re the final point - the trusty .30/06 will be going mate. Probably with some 165gn or 180gn Woodleighs, even though I'd reckon my standard old 150gn Remmy Corelokt handloads will do the job after seeing what they do to big red stags and sambar.

Cheers all and please keep the advice coming!

Regards

blacks