The 30-06 is a great utility gun. I don't own one but have always envied those that have one and hunt with it. I shoot a 300 WM and it kicks the s**t out of me. I really have to shoot it all year to be ready for hunting season. The 06s that if have shot seem smooth and a pleasure to shoot. For reloading they are great. I agree that the 300 mags or the 338 WM is the best elk rifle. But not everyone can shoot a mag rifle. Within 300 yards an 06 is just the ticket. And I don't know of a general all-game gun. I don't subscribe to that theory. Especially when elk is part of your game.

My advice on an elk gun is to use the biggest gun you can shoot accurately and not too heavy to carry. For many hunters, thats a 30-06.