I have to agree with bigbulls on this. The ideal shot for me on elk would be slightly behind the near shoulder with the bull quartering away. I would then rely on the controlled expansion of a premium bullet to completely take out the boiler room,
then break the off shoulder. <img src=icon_smile_dead.gif border=0 align=middle>
If that shot doesn't present itself, at least you know you have a rifle/cartridge/bullet combination up to the task to reach the vitals from other angles. Enjoy!!!
Good Dogwork and Good Hunting