Well I will admit I have shot a few Elk with a 270 and 140Gr failsafes. No lost animals or need for mulitple shots. I agree 100% you must be willing to stick to the limitations of the cartridge and use the right bullet. As such you must also know those limitations! All my shots were within 200 yards, broadside and yes i did pass up a good bull due to a poor angled shot. Like you it was all I had at the time and I used it effectively. BTW I now rarely use a rifle to hunt elk, just string and stick...so I guess I have dropped even further down the food chain. Just kidding, I know my limits, shot angles, yardages and use the most effective medicine I can throw out of my bow at elk. I suggest you do the same, find a good solid premium bullet like NP, Failsafes or bearclaws and stick to your limits, if you choose to tote the 270 this fall.

Have fun Elk hunting is blast and I bet you' ll be hooked for life! Better start saving now for that biggin'