Heading out to Montana this fall to attempt to stick some razor-blades-on-a-stick into an elk.

I am using an Hoyt Xtec set @ 70 lbs. Carbon shafts. Vanes. 100 grain Montec broadheads.

What yardage can I shoot this setup too on an elk and still have the PENETRATION needed to produce an ethical kill. Hmm... better phrasing might be "At what yardage will ft/lbs. of kinetic energy drop to levels that will create an unethical attempt at harvesting a game animal.

I have been practicing out to 60 yards to create the confidence I want to shoot at 30 yards. I am drawing my line at 30 yards. Reason #1. I use one pin from 0 - 30 yards. I can keep 'em all in the bullseye at this range. If conditions are perfect... broadside, no wind, I'm not shaky, I look up and see God smiling... I will take the shot at 40 yards. I am confident I can make an accurate shot at this yardage. Actually, to brag a bit, With known yardage (laser) I can consistantly keep everything in a 6" (somedays I get a 4" circle) circle at 60 yards. I know I can shoot accurately enough ON A TARGET RANGE. Throw in hiking five miles uphill and buck (elk) fever though...

Anyway, for my confidence level, what kind of penetration can I expect at 30 and 40 yards.

I shoot a set up that will produce very similar energy levels as yours. 76 foot pounds of KE at the bow. 70 pounds, 30 inch draw, with 125 grain slick tricks on carbon express arrows. I would take a shot at an elk to 40 yards. I would strech it to 50 yards if everything was perfect. Ie.... no wind, very relaxed elk, very ralaxed ME, broad side shot, laser ranged distance.

You will certainly have enough oomph to get through an elk with your set up at your stated distances. Provided you don't smack one right in the shoulder blade. Even then you still have enough to get well inside the lungs/ heart for a good clean kill. You will be just fine.

Good luck!!!!!!1