For me, the “perfect” elk rifle was my old Stainless M70 in 338 WM w/22” bbl. loaded with 210 Partitions at 2,925 FPS.

Problem is, “perfect” on paper is different from reality. It put stuff down in short order, but not enough differently than dozens of other softer recoiling cartridges that can be chambered in lighter, easier to carry rifles.

I like the 6.5CM/270/7mm-08/308 approach these days. Anymore, to me, a “big” gun is the 30-06 or 300 WSM.

Were I you, I’d use the 6.5x55 Norge with a 130 or 140 gr. bullet and not think twice.

“Perfection is Achieved Not When There Is Nothing More to Add, But When There Is Nothing Left to Take Away” Antoine de Saint-Exupery