I've read on several forums where guys have used the 6.5 CM successfully on elk and I'm sure it would work, after all, I shot quite a few with my .270 many years ago and it worked just fine as well. BUT these days I prefer a little more power so I carry my .300 WM. The darn things can soak up some lead and make tracks and cover some distance after being hit. Unlike a moose that'll just stand there and take it.