I guided elk hunters for awhile, a little over 20 years. I wouldn't go out and buy a .243 for an elk rifle, but I sure would have a lot more confidence in a guy that could shoot a .243 well, than I would in a guy shooting a magnum that he was afraid of. When working as a licensed outfitter my advice to my hunters was that if they weren't already shooting a mag, don't go out and buy one just to hunt elk. Most guys did better with the deer rifles they were acustomed to. IMO a magnum is best used by those looking to increase their range beyond the 300 yds that the '06 based rounds are adequate for. I wouldn't hesitate using my .243 on elk, assuming relatively short ranges, say 150 yds or so, heavy Barnes or partition bullets, and broadside shots. I think of it as a varmint round that, with proper bullets and positive shot placement, can be used for elk.
