IMHO the best rifle for elk is the one you can shoot the most accurately with and are comfortable with. Sure, 270 is fine for shorter ranges, but I wouldn't consider it a good elk caliber. I would consider it a caliber that will suffice. I like the heavier magnums, but they do nobody any good if the shooter can hit squat with it. How many people really pratice with their rifles? How many people go out and set up jugs around the hills at different ranges? How many people really practice stress shooting? Placement placement placement. I want folks to really know and understand their rifles, and if thats with a 270, we are going to be better off then the guy who shoots a 338 rum 4x a year. As a side note, you would be amazed how many people miss what they are shooting at when elk hunting.

In general, I personally would stay away from a 270 for elk, but thats kind of the point of my post, it has a lot to do with the individual. I'll hunt deer in my area all day long with a .223, because I know it's all short range and I will hit exactly where I mean to. I would not recommend a .223 for deer hunting, however. Make sense?