Val, if she/you has taken 5 elk in 5 years running and each time in a 2 day window from the same spot I'd suggest you use the same means this time that you've used the last 5 years - no security issues that way. Note: you might not just be sore the next day but might still packing it out the next day.

Seperately, you're lucky to have an outdoorsy mom and a who is a hunter to boot, don't take her for granted. Enjoy your time with her out in the woods! It'll be golden forever.

EKM

Good judgement comes from bad experience! Half of elk hunting is knowing what NOT to do!