I've seen and guided many hunters who have wounded elk (and other animals) with .30-06, .300, .338. It's not like you touch them and they will instantly be anchored. It's more important that you make a good shot rather than toting around the biggest gun you can shoot. Alot of those guys can't shoot consistently with guns that large...they just aren't for everyone. Given a choice in a perfect world of what caliber to give someone I would say .300 but there are other numerous variables for what is the best caliber for a given person/situation. Alot of people seem to try to piegonhole this argument and say "This is the best..period." Well it's not that simple and your not an authority on anything except punching keys so don't expect anyone to take your word for it.