RE: what is the "real" difference or benefit?
Around here, in NC...They just aren't needed..If out west where you might run into longer shots and elk...I'd still opt for a .300 Win Mag or a 7mm Rem Mag...Frankly everyone that I know that bought a Short Mag has only a few years hunting experience, they are trying to "one up" everyone else....If you want something different to tinker with and reload for and like to spend your money on such, go for it!!!