I went and got my shots (Tetanus, etc) today, passport should be here within a week. I am walking everyday and counting time till the world spins enough times to get me to Zim. How can 85 days seem like an eternity??? It is never going to get here.
Quick question for all you "old timers" - have any of you used or heard of the cartridge belts from Nevada Leather Co.? www.sagunleather.com (Hopefully that link will work) Before anybody says anything, I know, I know - you get what you pay for! But it is only $40.00!
Also, which hydration pack, Camelbak or Hydrastorm? I need one big enough to use a carry-on (change of clothes, camera, toiletry kit, etc) but not one so big it is a pain in the as-back to carry all day.
Side Note -
Tony,
I just finished reading Ron Thompson's book. You were right (imagine that) great book, very useful information. I am looking very forward to getting the opportunity to test the info he made available. So thanks for recommending it.

Good luck on your hunt.
Practice working your bolt action from the shoulder. Load some dummy rounds, practicing topping off the magazine from your cartridge carriers.
Are you going to make the DRSS Hog hunt for some practice before your trip?

T,
Perry and I went to the range the other day and I shot 3 reloaded 2 and emptied the gun - 20 seconds. not bad, but I think there is definately room for improvement (I hit the target(s) with every shot). I have been told the Zim PH's have to be able to pull off 3 and 3 in 24 seconds. That could be right, could be wrong. At least I am on track.
As far as the DRSS hunt goes, I would like to be able to make that I am just not sure of the scheduling yet. I would like to see you boys in action with those doubles! I get a big kick out of shooting Perry's 500/416 and his 45-70. Almost makes me want one of my own.

While a hydration pack surely is an option, of course, I don't think it is necessary. I just grab a couple of bottles of water at breakfast and add some electolyte mix and put them in the little back pack that SOMEONE ELSE CARRIES! When I need a drink, I just pull it out of the pack and take a slug or two. A couple of liters of water is heavy but will be gladly toted by a tracker or skinner if he knows he will get a little something extra for it at the end of the safari. Maybe I'm lazy (I know I'm old, ugly and fat), but after 10k's of up and down, I'm sure that the lack of the extra few pounds on my back makes a difference in my ability to keep on going.

I like this stuff

http://www.jeffsoutfitters.com/store.aspx?categoryid=59&panel=1