I always have the scope at the lowest setting unless terrain indicates a long shot is about all that may present itself and I am stationary. Sometimes in dark timber, even the 4.5 power setting is too much.

Thanks for the info and advice. Just talked to my UPS delivery guy who returned from a bow hunt in the unit we will be hunting. Saw lots of elk and had the opportunity for a cow on a few occasions. But he passed, holding out for a bull. Did take a nice 5x5 Mulie that was in full velvet.