elk size and range estimation

[rufous]

I came across an interesting product. It is a rangefinder that attaches to the sight pin frame.
http://www.deadonrangefinder.com/howitworks.html But there is a problem that I see with this device and that is that not all elk have the same back to brisket measurement.

Kahles Optik’s website has a chart for various animals. http://www.kahlesoptik.com/products/animal_silhouette.html They list elk ranging in back to brisket measurement as varying from 19” on a Tule elk cow to 33” on a Roosevelt bull. This rangefinder assumes the measurement to be 28”. I will be hunting Rocky Mtn elk spikes. They list Rocky Mtn cows as having a 20” back to brisket measurement. Do any of you know if the spike would be more like the cow at 20” or more like 24”? My guess is that it would be more like a cow. If it is only 20” and the rangefinder assumes 28” then it would be off by 20/28=71% so if you thought the spike was 30 yards away it would actually be only 21.4 yards away. I like the idea of this rangefinder but am not sure it would work for me if I am hunting spikes. Any thoughts from you all? Thanks, Rufous.

 

[Calif. Hunter]

I'm not a bowhunter, so please excuse my ignorance. How far does the arrow drop between 21 and 30 yards, or between 30 and 40 yards? I imagine the further the distance, the greater the disparity between the two would be.

 

[T Bone]

I wouldn't mess with the gadgetry. Keep it simple, practice, practice practice at range estimation. It'll get to the point when a critter shows up, estimation is done without thinking. Pick a spot, and let her rip

For calling elk, set up and range a couple marks and that gives you everything you need.