Aside from area specific stuff (because not all type 2 are the same), the biggest factor that can affect your hunt is weather, which you have little control over. Best to pick a time that works for you and go hunt.
Wyoming does it in certain areas on and off. Lots of different opinions on it. I think the popular opinion is they are ok if you don’t do it every year.
Depends on the area but in general there are several ways to possibly increase the quality of the experience out there (which is subjective):
1. Limit access (ie: vehicles)
2. Limit weapon (ie: archery or muzz)
3. Limit tags (popular method, two above methods may help to increase tags while...
I use 10” landscaping spikes. Also, getting a flat rock under the pole is critical. Take time to bury your flaps or set rocks on them. Take some baling wire and pliers in case you need to tie down your stovepipe. I’ve had my 12 man in some pretty rough weather and it’s a big target….
I use RCBS lube and pad. I tumble after resizing and trimming and then run in an ultrasonic. Not necessary but I like the brass squeaky clean. Whatever gives ya that warm fuzzy, ya know?
I know there are a lot of people who use lighter calibers successfully for elk and more power to em if it works for how they like to hunt elk.
But if someone were seeking some recommendations on a dedicated elk rifle I wouldn’t recommend any of the calibers in the original post.
I know this...
I mostly seek scenarios where I can be prone but my next favorite is seated over sticks or bipod.
Anymore I am mostly looking over the shoulder of one of my boys and I have taught them to figure in a prone shot in their stalk scenarios.