I do like giving out a gift individually, at least to the staff you come in contact with. Don't forget the hidden staff though as they often work hard for you too eg the skinners.

As for 'tips' I know of one outfitter who gives out a standard 'tip' to his staff for each hunt irrespective of what the client gives. So he makes up any deficiency himself, or I guess pockets the excess (??). Or was the 'tip' really called wages in the USA or Australia??

The double rifle "tip" I will explain a little.

The client was a manufacturer of double rifles from Italy. Each year he would visit the same outfitter and hunt a single trophy bull elephant with the outfitter. He would then 'tip' the outfitter with the double rifle he brought out with them and the owner who had at least one himself, started to hand them out to his PH staff in order of seniority. The PH I talked to, Rolf, was the youngest and least senior and the next year was going to be his turn to get the 'tip'. Unfortunately they lost their Zambian concession that year and the outfitter needed to lay off a PH or two and he being the 'junior' got the chop!

To say the least he was quite disappointed to miss out of a $10G double rifle 'tip' as a result.

BUT I think the PR of having this very famous outfitter using exclusively this brand of double rifles may have paid for itself by other wealthy clients seeing the rifles and purchasing them themselves overtime.

Shakari - a client to have, don't you think!

In the wine industry here at home you give away wine to sell it. A standard formula. Maybe in the double rifle field it is the same and giving them away helps sell them (now that is a big hint. HINT, Holland & Holland, Westley Richards or even the yank made Rigby, perhaps a Merkel !) Fat chance of that!

(only joking of course

)

PS From my reckoning and emails to me this site has resulted in three doubles being purchased so far!

Mike

I hope when it comes to tipping, that you will be so happy, it is a pleasure, having enjoyed the first of many future fantastic safaris.