Elk are not a particularly small target - a 4x would likely be adequate for most situations although I do like a bit more magnification so have gravitated toward Leupolds 2.5 - 8 - they are light, trim and rugged. I suspect a larger problem than low scope power would be excessive scope weight. Carrying exessive scope weight around in steep, challenging country leads to quicker fatigue which leads to less effective hunting. I have never understood the need some feel to pack around a Hubble equivalent when a trim, light, high quality scope will be plenty adequate in virtually all situations where a shot is justified.
Need? Who needs? We want
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