I agree that long distance shots require upgraded components. My older Remington in .243 shoots better accurasy than ever before by simply switching to the 95 gr. Nosler Ballistic Tip.
But I still hunt mulies in the foothills each year with my 30-30 carbine and plain old fashioned flat nose ammo. My shots rarely exceed 125 yards or so and at this distance, my 30-30 still hits with plenty of power.
Elk are notorious for showing little or no response to a good shot into the chest. I've witnessed that Premium bullets bring .308, 7mm-08, 270, and 30-06 to a higher level of penetration than so-called standard bullets. That being said, I've toppled more elk over the years with Remington core-lockt ammo than any other brand or type of bullet. It's a well designed bullet that has proven itself around the world, wherever big game is hunted.
No, I'm not employed by Remington as a spokesman.
I've experienced very good performance with FEDERAL Hi-Shok, Winchester Power Point & SilverTip, and Hornady Inter-lock. Sierra Pro Hunter is worth a second look as well.
Good hunting to you.
Jack