My son bought two of the Marlin X-7's a couple of years ago, they were on sale and stainless. One is a 30-06, the other is a 25-06. He has scoped the 25-06 and uses it for deer hunting. He loves it. I read an article a few years ago where they tested four or five bolt actions against each other as to accuracy. The X-7 came out on top by a good margin. It is a good gun and 25-06 is a popular choice.

I have never elk hunted, but I would use at least a 30-06 or 7MM on them. I know that many have been killed with a 30-30 and the 25-06 would kill one but I would use something bigger just to be sure.