Being new to Alaska, I actually appreciate the system here. No matter what, there will be ambiguity in the field making a hunter take a chance when shooting. The moral of the story is don't shoot if you aren't sure.

I just came from WA where Elk was spike only. I've seen many people drop a spike with a second tine (greater than 1") that couldn't be seen in the situation. In WA, this was poaching and punishable by forfeit of your hunting privileges, hunting gear, vehicle, fine up to $5000, and jail time. The rules are so stringent, it incentivised people to hide the mistake (leaving it or taking and hiding it) as opposed to handling it like an adult. 

Next season will be my first moose season and if I am at all unsure of the legality of the animal, I'll pass. Alaska does a nice job with their regulations, but many hunters are too impatient. The more patient you are as a hunter, the more opportunities and better opportunities you will get.