The "guys at the range" have absolutely no idea what they are talking about. None. Zero.

The 6.5 Creedmoor can expect about 4,000+ rounds of barrel life for most folks. Just depends on if you are shooting BR, f-class, silhouette, tactical or hunting. It is not a barrel burner anymore than a 6.5x47L, 260 and is even close to a .308 barrel life for that matter.

Don't listen to those guys, they clearly have no experience with this cartridge whatsoever.

The 6.5 Creedmoor fits perfectly between the 6.5x47L and the 260. It's slightly longer than the 47L and slightly shorter than the 260.