The only suggestion I would offer is on the choice of bullet, as you stated. Personally, I won't use a Sierra for any hunting purpose. I have shot Nosler quite a bit, am absolutely confident in them, and would use a Partition or Accubond. I have never been disappointed. The bullet would no longer be a worry, and you could then focus on the really hard part of finding an elk and working into a shooting opportunity. Any sensible caliber will get the job done. Your 30-06 or 7mm-08 are great choices. Charlie Sisk coined the phrase, "Load Partitions, shut up, go hunting"
