I found out last week I drew an archery elk tag in Unit 52 in New Mexico.  I have been shooting a Black Widow at 47 lbs at my draw of 27".  Am I underbowed for elk?  What are your recommendations?  I have taken a couple with firearms but never with bow.  Thanks for any help.  Lonnie

THIS  is FROM LONGARROW...NOT SHAFT SLINGER ( my brother) just happen to be at his house, pickin' him up for Compton shoot!!....I think your bow will be fine..good arrow flight...sharp broadheads...heavy arrow..get real close....and put the arrow in the vitals! I elk hunt with a 50#'er @28" and I only pull 27"! Good Luck!

47 is on the light side - elk are big animals.  If you do you that bow I would sure use heavy arrows, single blade head, and limit your shots to very close.

2nd Whip's advise. The arrow is the most important part of the setup. Adding weight to the head, with steel adapter and inserts in Aluminum or Graphite to increase FOC to around 29% should help, then practice with it to determine your max distance, being able to group within 8" will give you added confidence. Study the anatomy of Elk, and take only the best side angle shot. The head needs to be razor sharp. Good luck.

I do use single blade heads and I have added weight in the front of my arrows.  The getting close part is going to be the hardest in my opinion.  I feel like I need to be within 20-25 yards and no more.  I don't know if a heavier bow would help me any with farther distances or not.

Don't worry about it. My Brother has taken 2 elk with a self bow (about 45#@27")and he short drew on the last one. Shooting Doug fir shafts with a magnus 2blade. Both went down in sight. As many have advised before, Sharp BH in the right place will do it.

Ditto... Sharp BHs and arrow placement in vitals. Broadside/Quartering away!!!!
 

           

You will be ok. Elk are very tough critters, though. Practice up thoroughly.

The wife hunts with 42 lbs.  Whip hit it on the head.  Inside 20 yards, razor sharp broadhead on a heavy arrow and that elk will be on the ground.  No iffy angles or long range shots.