I do not have all the answers to dart hunting rhino yet, but I am convinced that under properly controlled circumstances dart hunting is much more daunting, thrilling and demanding than rifle hunting. I am a better, happier and wiser hunter for having experienced it. I do not believe that dart hunting will ever replace traditional hunting. The revenue derived from it is insignificant in comparison and conservation management costs are intimidating. It does however obviously augment traditional hunting methods as it brings the hunting of certain species into the financial reach of a broader spectrum of hunters, while it undoubtedly requires more time to achieve.
Longer hunts is a positive spin-off.
The lessons I have learnt are that the dart gun should be sighted better than we had done. Vertical drop is acceptable, but lateral deviation proved to be my downfall. I needed that and Paul indicated that except in those rare instances where a crisis develops, there is no reason why the hunter should not be given some time with the animal. Personally I do not feel that longer range dart guns are the answer. I do not want to dart anything at range, but improved accuracy and a point of impact closer to point of aim would do the concept nothing but good.