Here in colorado evidence of sex either udders or testicles naturally attached to one hind quarter until it's home or at the processor. Reason being people shoot old bull elk for the head and take a cow elk for the meat so head is not sufficient evidence of sex on bull only tags.
All of my elk have been shot just before dark in the evenings so I've always gutted them out and opened them up around the neck to shoulders on top before laying elk out on logs or brush if possible to elevate and cool down meat best as possible. Then come in morning with help to quarter and pack out the meat. Usually skin everything and put in game bags to keep clean. Hide is my ground cloth and yes always take the hooves/ lower legs off with my havalon. No need for fixed blade or saws when you cut at the joints for everything. My favorite job of the year and I can't wait to work on another pack out again this fall!
