[M.T. Pockets]

Brithunter, sounds like you've got some good hunting experience. An elk certainly has a larger lethal zone than the deer you have hunted. The difference I've noticed hunting elk compared to other animals is mostly the shooting conditions. It is common to have to shoot while you're out of breath, standing on uneven ground (mountain sides) through a small patch of timber, and other challenging field conditions.

Another shooting pointer while hunting elk. They have a large lethal zone and you don't have to be able to see the entire animal to take a very good shot at it. Elk are often shot in timber where only part of the animal is visible. Once you've identified it as the one you want you may end up shooting at a part of it, while not being able to see the rest. If you wait for a standing broadside shot when the entire animal is visible you may pass up some good opportunities. It's not always like on TV.

Another pointer, keep shooting. An elk hit in the lungs can still run an awful long ways, a hit to the heart and they can run even further. You'll likely find it dead, but it's best to try to drop them while they are in sight.

You'll have fun and I wish I was going with.