I think what happens most of the time on a high shot that may be spine area the arrow deflects and goes over the spine and doesn’t cause damage. That’s just my opinion but you don’t hear of too many cases where someone hits an elk high with an arrow and they drop in their tracks which would be...
Most of us aren’t Dr’s so the mention of the dead zone or void is just a reference to the area with no vitals that goes from the physical top of the back down to the lungs. On an elk this is going to be the top 6” to 8” or so of the animal.
I’d say you’re close on temps. The rule of thumb is 3.3F/1000ft. These are big mountains though and weather can change quickly so I’d expect the unexpected and hope for the best.
This all depends what you’re planning on using the chains for but if it’s for mountain roads I definitely wouldn’t buy those cable chains. I’d get a good quality set of real chains with v-bars. One set is good two sets is better it all depends how bad the roads get. They’re invaluable on ice and...
Good luck on the hunt. Getting info from guys for an otc elk area where numbers aren’t great already because of wolfs is going to be tough. Be prepared for thick brush and steep hills.
What I meant was if you really want to kill an elk then don’t side track yourself with deer and stay focused on the areas the elk are. If you want to just be out hunting and would be happy with an opportunity at either then buy both tags. That’s my opinion.
I think it depends on shooting distance. For shorter range or still hunting where you’ll likely be shooting from standing position I like the trekking poles. For long range shooting I like bipods with a pack or jacket under the butt.