Thanks for the replies. I'll review Fadala's book, Adam, and will seriously consider using PRBs for elk. Just don't want to blow it if I get a chance at a big one.
16 G: I used a 45-70 on a buff hunt a few yrs back. Took me 3 shots even tho the first was double lung. They have such big lungs that it takes them a long while to fill with blood. I had to wait for it to be clear of others in case the bullet went all the way thru. Second shot was a little back but not gut. Third was right in the heart area. I'm not proud that it took me that many shots to bring him down but that's how it happened - they are tough animals.
Mike