I think the 6 ARC will suit the biggest potential market out there for the "bigger/faster/heavier than a 5.56" market in AR-15's nicely becuz:
1. I think they are probably WAY more potential shooters desiring to stratch their yardage legs with an AR-15 than there will ever be predator hunters? This is Hornady's target market, most shooters, not some of them.
2. It is Hornady factory-backed - they tend to do well with new cartridges, and research and develop them well,
3. They apparently already have a military market for the ARC?
4. It is factory, so dies will not be $100-200/set, but prob $35, and there will be factory ammo and brass available - HUGE for the vast majority of shooters, which is generally not those of us on this site,
5. It lends itself well to an upcoming 22 ARC release, possible 6.5, etc. etc.
6. It is close enough to all the various wildcats in velocity, versatility, etc., such that we shouldn't waste time arguing miniscule details that the vast majortiy of shooters wont even comprehend (yeah, that's gonna happen!!! LOL!) The average buyer wont care about 100 fps, or 1/4" difference on under 1 moa groups if he doesnt need to fireform, reload, etc. etc.
7. It'll do lil varmints all the way up to medium game with good bullet selection and shot placement.
8. It'll sell more guns and ammo.......
It would seem the arguments against it are the same as the arguments probably used against the 5.56/223 vs the 222/222 Mag/etc. back in the 60's when developing the AR in the first place??
I personally like the idea of more factory choices with less hassle. JMHO. Flame away.