Interesting what I have here. I have a book published by the NAHC in 1987, Authored by Van Zwoll, Lapinski, Schuh, and Wiltse, titled All About Elk. One chapter discusses "The Elk Hunting Rifle." In that chapter, itsays "The most popular calibers that have proven adequate for elk hunting are the .270 Winchester, 7mm Remington Magnum, .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Winchester Magnum." It further goes on to discuss each of these six cartridges individually. So, after 20 years, it seems that the mentality of people has not changed all that much, and maybe these are the best all around cartridges for taking elk, when all factors are considered. Cost of the rifle, ammo, weight of the firearm, etc. I think this book was designed to point a first time elk hunter in the right direction, which might put the .308 in the group for that fact that someone from back east might have one lying around that they use for deer. It may not be the best choice overall, but would work with the right load and SHOOTER.