I used a 270 to harvest 2 bull elk and 2 bull moose so it will suffice. However like mentioned the right bullet for the job is required (like a NP, Failsafe, Barnes X, etc in the 140-150 gr size) and might I add restriction must all be applied with a 270 and tougher game. This means distance and angle of shot taken. If one can do these then the 270 will certainly be adequate for your elk hunt...if not you should be honest with yourself and look for a bit more umf. 7mm mags or 300 wins are not a huge jump in recoil and will give you more options in distance, shot angles and bullet choice. I use 160 gr premium bullets out of my 7 rem mag and haven't had a single problem arise with any elk or moose I have encountered.