I agree that if you choose to go hunting nasty things that could very well kill you, you should be able to take the situation into your own hands. I dont feel that it is right to rely on your PH. I know it is his job and he is probably much better at it than you but what if?....... I was in a situation where I had a buffalo charge me and the PH (a very good hunter and absolutely competent) was behind some mopane very close to me but was unable to shoot. A fortuitous shot from my 470 stopped the charge at close range, dosent matter how far. What matters is that I had enough gun and was able to put the bullet in the right place. Well almost (was aiming for the brain but went over the horns and hit the spine....but that counts!!! im still here)
Cary enough gun and guts!