Western Montana Elk Rut / hunt dates???

[jrebel]

So we are going back to Montana this year and have two date ranges we are debating between.  What dates would you pick in an attempt to hit the rut at it's peak and have the most days with vocal elk. 

Sept 12-27th
Sept 18-Oct 3

thanks

[coachcw]

12/27th I have been in I'd ant mt the last days of sept into Oct and had the  bulls lock up due to a snow.

[Elknut1]

I would also select 12-27 -- But don't believe you will go wrong with either!

  ElkNut1

[WapitiTalk1]

Most locals who take time off work for bow elk in the Big Sky State seem to take the third week (probably results in more hunters during that week in the woods).  That said, either period you mentioned is money but perhaps more herding up activity in the first period. So another vote time frame one