Hi, just my 1 1/2 cents worth. I have no African hunting experience; but from I've read on leopards by those that have hunted them; They are seriously!! mean and dangerous when cornered/wounded/aggravated etc. As a back gun, out of the 2 you mention; the 416 is the only option. Any chance you can borrow a marlin guide gun in 45/70 if the 416 is just too much? They pack a good punch.