Elk with the Grendel

[fanofflyn]

I know in Africa they throw kinetic energy (weight of projectile x velocity squared) out the window, and better utilize momentum (weight of projectile x velocity) which better correlates with penetration, which is what is important there. Bullet construction of course is critical and can make or break the difference. For example, you can take a .22 LR and theoretically run it at 6000 fps, and it will have the same kinetic energy as a .500 Jeffery shooting a 530 grain bullet. Which one would you want to shoot the elephant with? Bullet weight x velocity changes the character of the argument significantly hence the effectiveness of the bow where the projectile weight times the velocity is a significant value. With the Grendel, and a good bullet that retains all of its weight, and a good velocity, it can get the job done, but just as in the bow, shot placement is critical. So it boils down to, how good of a shot can you make at distance, with the wind on this side of the valley different from the wind on the other side of the valley. If you can make a killing shot, go for it. If you're not sure, wait for a better opportunity.
The genius of Weatherby was magnificent, but the philosopy of "velocity is what kills" is not absolute, and requires consideration commensurate with the task at hand.