RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
I am using federal premium with Nosler Partitions in 180 grain. They group well in my rifle. If the 165 grain bullets group well in yours, I would use those. My guide says he has killed many elk with 140 grain 6.5 swedes becasue he can shoot it well. IMHO, you are better off with a round that you have the most confidence in as you will be more likely to place the shot. And shot placement is the main thing.
okcmco