Reciprocating saw??

[rainshadow1]

I'd only use it with horses or a cart on a trail. Otherwise, I'd just use hand tools. (Nothing like a quality knife to save some labor!  )

The outfitter I guided for in MT back a million years ago used a tiny chainsaw with vegetable oil in the bar oiler. We'd field dress, mark it (Pre-GPS) and then hike out. He'd lead the pack string in, fire up the chainsaw, and be loading quarters 5 minutes later!

A good recip would serve the same way with a good wood blade. Don't skimp on the purchase though. I have a 18v B&D and wouldn't even consider it for that job, it'll last for one or two cuts through a 2x4, that's about it. I've used a 19v craftsman, it's far better, it'll probably do 10 2x6's on a battery. That'd probably quarter up an elk. I'd go DeWalt or Makita or Porter Cable, and the best ones. You need torque and battery life, you won't get either on the cheap. 

[PA BEN]

A knife, sharping steel and game bags is all you need. With the extra wt. of the bones its just as ez to remove them. The only bones I take out is the front shoulder to the hock, and the hind legs from the ball joint to the hock. If its along ride out I'd remove those bones too.

[jeepasaurusrex]

I watched a guy cut up an elk with a Stihl 011 chain saw.  Put vegatable oil in the bar oiler.  It may cause night mares for some, but it's quick.

We had to do that in I think it was 82 or 83 when they had that big snow fall. We had two elk hanging whole. We needed to break camp quick and get out before any more snow fell. 

[jeepasaurusrex]

Don't forget, battery life is decreased in cold weather.