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Starr, I've seen elk killed with one shot from everything from a 22/250 to a 35 Whelen.
Your choice will be determined by a couple of things.:
* Your maximum comfortable range
* Your ability to handle recoil
* The type of hunting.
Range is a big one. Most of us, when we are really, truly honest with ourselves, shouldn't shoot at elk from field position unless they are within 250 yards. Any modern cartridge will do that. But, it you have a spot in your "back yard" where you can ambush elk at a longer range, and have a good rest, and practice at that distance, more horsepower might be needed, such as a 300 Win or other "magnum".
Recoil is a big one. My wife really isn't comfortable with anything more than here 280. I happen to enjoy the occasional shot that "rocks my world", and I like shooting a 35 Whelen. Once in a while.... For most women, a 308 or 708 are ideal solutions. Good range, good penetration, and moderate recoil.
Finally, the type of hunting. If you "jump shoot" elk, like I do, a little extra horsepower doesn't hurt. Simply because the angles aren't ideal, and you might have to shoot through the elk diagonally. Again, that is why I shoot the Whelen.
Unless you expect to be shooting long range or at odd angles, the 308 and 7/08, and a rifle that fits YOU would be my choices, with the nod going to the 308. HTH, Dutch.
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