Elk hunting in first rifle season in SW Colorado GMU 75, as usual. I had a bull elk in my cross hairs last year, 7:30 AM, Tuesday morning, but I deemed the shot doubtful for my ability at that moment. It looked a long way away and I felt jittery. Part of my problem, I think, was that I was in a defeatist frame of mind at the time and was surprised by the opportunity. My adrenaline started rushing and I didn't calmly evaluate the situation -- like to ask myself how much are the cross hairs moving on the vital area? He stood broadside for 3 seconds and then slowly and regally started walking down the hill, soon going behind a rise of ground. I've got a new laser range finder for Christmas, now, and at least I'll know my distances to objects.