Have killed 7 Elk since I started Elk hunting 9 years ago when I moved to Washington State. One of my Elk came from a guided Montana hunt I treated my Dad to and took my then 12 year old son with us both of them to get thier first Elk. My Dad took his with a .270 after he would not shoot the 300WSM I also bought him the difference in recoil was enough he couldn't stand it. Quote from the guide was to have my Dad and Son bring something they are comfurtable shooting because he would get us close enough it would not matter. So Dad got his with the 270. And dead is Dead. My son on the other hand was about 90# at the time. Soaking wet. A 308 was too uncomfurtable for him. The guide recomended a 243 with 95gr premium bullets. Gage shot his at 35yrds a nice spike. Ran less than my 4X5 or my Dad's 6X6.

I carried and if I had to pick my favorite "cartridge" it would be the 8mm Magnum. Rare breed now adays.

My other 6 Elk have all came with Muzzleloaders. 50cal. 340gr all lead bullet 120gr powder = Dead.