Howler, You and I are hunting in CO. This is a totally different environment than ID, where a lot of the hunters here are from. I would include that as west. The tree cover is much thicker than what you and I see here. To get a shot over 30yds is not the case. Elkcrazy8, Elknut1 and Idahoelkinstructor and I have talked about this at length. I have taken some animals at longer distances also. Last years bull was taken across a pond[40yds]. It was a good shot, but I am set up for it equipment wise. And am comfortable with that distance. But the best shooter here I know of [Elkcrazy8] might have passed on that shot because of the distance. And if you want thick cover go back to my home state of NY, 40yds out of the question. I guess the point is we live in a state that is unique. But in many ways is easier to hunt, because we can see at a distance. I like watching a bull come 200yds to my calling. A lot of these guys don't get to see things like this, but they might be better hunters because of that. I would encourage a guy from back east to practice for longer shots if they are coming here because it is so open. But if they hunt with me, I want them to take an elk at no more than 30yds. The first time you have an elk in front of you, it boggles the mind, remember.
Gselkhunter