RE: WHAT LOAD FOR FIRST ELK?
Yes. Try another brand. Yer length of barrel, yer twist, the primer, all can make a difference. I don't like most factory loads. Remington does well with Core Lokts, but the Federal Nosler loads have been more consistent rifle to rifle. If the Federals won't group either, change the bullet. Noslers usually ain't a finicky bullet. Failsafes can be thet way. If the Noslers don't group, look at another premium factory load. Sometimes its a crap shoot. If no factory ammo will group, check the crown an' barrel. If it checks out, give up and go to a bow and arrer cause it ain't the ammo or the rifle.
BJ