DD,
IMO you are looking for a paper and ballistics answer to what is essentially an experience question.
If you wish to intentionally "sand bag" your hunt, then that is certainly your perogative.
Go ahead and take one of yourlower performers and leavethe "orgasmic stuff"at home.

Go do the hunt,then you will have experience vs. theory,instead ofvice versa.
Once out in elk country, methinks you may find a change of heart.

With deer practically any old thing will work.
With elk, every little bit helps.

This kind of "chase your tail" ballistics and paper discussion is why the poll asks for "current favorite that you have actually used to take elk" --- experience not theory. Actions speak louder than words. 12% vs. 88%. Your call.
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What is your current favorite elk cartridge that you personally have actually used to take elk?

5 - 270 Winchester
8 - 30-06 Springfield
1 - 270 Winchester Short Magnum
7 - 7mm Remington Magnum
1 - 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum
1 - 300 Winchester Short Magnum
3 - 300 Winchester Magnum
1 - 300 Weatherby Magnum
2 - 300 Remington Ultra Magnum
2 - 30-378 WeatherbyMagnum
5 -338 Winchester Magnum
2 - 338 Remington Ultra Magnum
1 - 340 Weatherby Magnum
1 - 358 Norma Magnum
2 - 375 Holland & Holland Magnum
1 - 416 Remington Magnum
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[Stick Flippers: 2]
[Smoke Poles:2]