Bill Negley got some of his without firearm backup.

An arrow through the heart or both lungs kills really fast. I haven't been to Africa, but I have seen some big animals go down fast here in Australia - just as fast as with a rifle, and in some cases faster.

I'm not sure I follow your logic: if the hunter goes with firearm backup (which is compulsory by law these days) he is not brave? But if he goes without it (which he cannot by law), then how is the guide to drop the animal with the rifle if it goes pear-shaped (which the guide should do even for rifle hunters).

In the event of a flesh wound, those caused by arrows are more likely to heal than those caused by bullets. Gut shots are a different story with arrow or bullet, and call for immediate and heavy response from the guide.

Good hunting, Bramble!

Regards,

Ben