Remington makes some ammo that is supposed to reduce recoil. You might want to consider that along with what others are said. 6 MM will kill a elk with propper shot placement. So will a 243, but given the size of the annimal, most opt for a little bigger gun. I think you can set one up and keep the recoil down with a bit larger caliber. I don't think I would want to go on a hunt like that and be questioning my gun the entire time. Peace of mind and little worries has to mean something.