Regardless of the animal the vitals ie: H/L region, breadbasket, boiler room, etc is the place to put the bullet. It not only is highly effective, it also leaves a good blood trail, minimal resistance so usually get the best penetration, less meat damage and also the highest margin of error(which in real life hunting situation may just be why it is the best shot placement to take). I personally don't feel a severely angled or straight on shot is the best to take especially on elk, so I simply will not shoot in this instance. Yes this has meant I had to go home without my animal but I feel much better knowing I never caused any suffering by a lapse in judgement.