RE: Finding an elks vital area
Elk and deer aren't built the same. Elk cantalever out over their front legs compared to deer. Heart and lungs move more forward and more in behind the shoulder. Most hunters hunt elk with their deer rifle even though the challenge at hand is at least 200% bigger and has 300% more will to live. Bust 'em right through the shoulder with a, "heavy for caliber partition bullet" (a BeaverJack Quote). Take out his front axle and you'll likely be able to follow him to his death spot. "Deer shoot" him behind the shoulder without a heart shot and he'll have full 4WD long enough and far enough you may not find him by the time he runs out of gas - may not even flinch when you hit him - always walk over and check for evidence of a hit - you won't believe how tough they are. Bust 'em in the shoulder and you will definitely know when you've hit him.
Good judgement comes from bad experience! Half of elk hunting is knowing what NOT to do!