I actually own a mossberg 30.06 bolt action and there is no way in hell ill switch from that gun. It is acurate reliable not heavy and has some take down power and the kick isnt that bad. I like how the safety is right at the thumb so all you have to do is push up for the gun to be lve and the bolt on it is nice and smooth and kicks the shell good. I've shot fawns to Bull moose with the gun and all you have to do is switch the grains of your bullets and you will have one of the most versitaile guns(i think). But yah for elk i use exactally what Eagle338 uses. A 180 grain nosler partition and they work great. So i would have to suggest the 30.06