James B. - I was not advocating the use of a 6MM rifle for general purpose elk hunting - even at medium distances. I think those guns begin with the .270 calibers - and only then with premium bullets. Having seen about 10 elk killed with various .243's and 6MM, I would describe their performance as "marginal". Requires very precise bullet placement - no shoulders or angling shots - broadside through the lungs or high in the neck. But I wouldn't go so far as to characterize it as "irresponsible"