I have had several 6.5-.284's built and to do it right and shoot the longer, heavier high BC bullets they need to be built on a long action. I can understand Hornady's thinking in designing a cartridge for a short action Magnum. George's 6.5 SAUM was a very popular chambering. He just work with Hornady to produce a SAAMI Spec'd version for the masses. With factory ammo support. Along with dies, brass and factory rifles being available instead of only customs available for the original 6.5 SAUM.
Not everyone reloads, so the 6.5 PRC will be a hit with guys who want top performance with a factory rifle and factory ammo. Comparing factory Creedmoor ammo speeds to 6.5 PRC factory ammo speeds there is a BIG difference! Not so much for the handloaded, the handloaded can always squeeze out more velocity.
For hunting no matter what angle you look at it.
Factory 6.5 PRC ammo with a 143gr ELD-X at 2960and a BC of .623 is a long range, flat shooting, game killing combo. All on a compact short action.