Bull Elk with Traditional ML

[MtnMike2]

I just read an article in Safari magazine about a guy hunting bison with .54 cal round balls in a flintlock. He max'd out the powder, using 120 gr of fffg and says he gets over 2000 ft/sec muzzle velocity, enough for buff at 60 yds, elk at 75.

I have been thinking about a traditional muzzle loader hunt for elk in fall 2010. I have a couple of points that should get me a good area in Colorado. My .54 cal Grt Plains rifle recommends max of 120 gr ffg or 100 gr fffg. I was thinking of buying the alternate faster twist barrel (1:32) to shoot conicals. The conicals would provide more weight for better penetration. If I want to try to be more historically correct, I suppose I could shoot mini-ball type conical.

I know I could stick to the PRBs, but I'd have to be very close in order to be sure of a kill. The conicals would provide a little more distance and give me more confidence. What do you all think? Anyone with experience on a big bull elk?

Mike