Holy moly, I'm going to CO for elk

[kbetts]

Well, that's the plan.  A bowhunting bud of mine (non-trad) threw an offer on the table a month ago to join him for 12 days in elk camp.  Living about as far east as anyone on this forum, that's bucket list stuff for a Sussex County boy.  It was short notice obviously, but really couldn't be coming at a better time.
1) I can afford it.
2) I've been running and lifting since Spring in preparation for a lacrosse tournament in Lake Placid for old men (I'm 39 so not too old).
3) The boss gave her blessing.

The last hurdle is getting the time off.  Every year till now I've had to carry over vacation days from one year to next....this year I need a couple extra.  Hopefully the last six years of perfect attendance will account for something....right?

Gear is being prepped and ordered.  I actually have most of it but am trying to upgrade a few things.  

Big decision on weapon choice and hence the reason I haven't posted this sooner....everyone is pushing me to the wheels.  However, as I tell them, I never got good until I picked up a trad bow......never even killed a nice whitetail buck till I started shooting a stick.  So, I'm shooting what I have confidence in....and I have much more confidence in myself when I carry a trad bow.  I can't wait.

[Longbowlogan]

Sounds like a great trip, a few buddies and I are planning a 12 day elk hunt for next year! I can't decide what I want to take either but I love the simplicity of my recurve and it shoots great for me. I can't wait to hear how everything goes, best of luck to you!!

[PistolPete]

Do whatever you have to do and go! You'll love it, and I bet you'll catch the fever and be planning to return again soon. Reminds me of one of my favorite quotes: "make the trip of a lifetime happen every year."

Also, I have shot elk with both trad bows and wheels. I think you are at no disadvantage with the stick, and in fact, I've had multiple encounters with bulls when I had the compound that I would have been better off with my longbow. Most of it comes down to being able to draw and let down slowly and smoothly, with less chance of spooking them. Not to mention carrying 3 fewer pounds in your hand all day every day.

And finally, I don't want to make this into a debate on it, but please shoot sturdy 2-bladed, single bevel broadheads. Trust me, I've learned from experience.

[kbetts]

Broadhead choice is something I'm on the fence about.  Regardless of bow, either a Kimsha Mattowoman II @ 60# or a 57# Great Plains SR Swift recurve, my broadheads will be 200 grains and screwed to a 100 grain brass insert......with a time tested GT arrow.  I love my Woodsmans but have considered a two blade although a double bevel.

[kadbow]

Woodsmans will be fine.  I prefer the three blade low profile heads.  I have used woodsmans on elk but am now using a 3 blade vpa.  You have plenty of weight up front.  What part of CO are you headed to?

[sheepdogreno]

Wow that's exciting! How will you sleep until then! I know I wouldn't!

[Archer1977]

Are you guys going with a guide? Or have an area picked out?

[two4hooking]

Good luck!  I'm originally from New Castle County.  Heading back to CO for elk myself this year.

Greg