The new rifle (and, likely, new scope) will usually handle and perform a bit differently than your current hunting rig. You need to take the time to get used to it.

Magnum calibers produce more power and usually a flatter trajectory. However, if you don’t take the time to get used to the increased recoil and muzzle blast of the magnum, your shooting ability will suffer. This means not only that you can’t take advantage of the magnum’s extra range, but also you will shoot poorly at a shorter range.

Most outfitters and guides say they would rather have a hunter use a lesser caliber that he can shoot well than a magnum that he can’t. Calibers such as the .270, .280, .308 and .30-06, with proper bullets, are entirely elk-adequate at reasonable ranges.