Most of the guys who own these high dollar Hog Dogs ( some go as high as $5,000) do not want them shot, ha. With the dogs all over them, it's very easy to wound or kill a dog, so they prefer to use a knife. I personally do not care for this kind of hunting, but I am older, stiffer and much fatter than I used to be, ha. I also do not care for all the commotion. When people used swords/knives/spears in war, they used them all the time, and were much more skilled. There is an "Art" to "sticking a pig", and my Dad did all the hog killing/butchering for my grandpa, who raised them. Dad used a kitchen knife with about an 8" blade, and one poke hit the heart. Lots of grunting/squealing,etc. Grandpa would walk out of sight while the killing was going on, as he always got attached to them, feeding.caring for them. However, his family came first. He helped with the butchering. Plus, I never, ever saw him eat a single pork chop off one of them! I guess I took after him to a degree. I just "love" to shoot them off of corn out in woods or off an old Tram road. I don't like running shots on them either, though I have done it, can do it...I just don't care for it. I want to "snipe" him,ha. But....to each his own. My friend/guide/Outfitter uses a Gerber MK II with about a 7" blade. He also packs a 4 5/8" Ruger Blackhawk .41 with hollowpoints, he wants it to stay in the hog, not overpenetrate. I suggest that if you do go for one with a knife, be sure you have at least a .357, or so because you could get in a wreck/jam with one in those thickets! Also, keep an eye on climbable trees! Have a ball man!