I'd like to say that since you are posting in a reloading forum, you must plan to reload, right? And if the answer is yes to reloading, just why are you limiting yourself to .308 and 6.5Creed? You can beat BOTH of those for your stated game with a couple of real common things, like a 270 or 7mm RM. The big seven should not be overlooked. With lighter bullets it will not kick any harder than the 308. And the 270 is a dream happy medium. Capable of elk (at least far better than the 6.5 creed) and distance.
If you are reloading, though, give some thought to these options: 6.5x55 swede (more omph than the 6.5 Creed, but long action), 6.5x284. reputed to be barrel burner, but you are planing to hunt, which usually does not destroy barrels. Or if you can find the odd 270 WSM, 7mm WSM or SAUM, they would scratch your short action desire and bring you a better solution for the game you are listing. Or how about a .284 Win (getting a resurgence, several manufacturers are producing factory guns for it) which is great. Or a 284 Rem (7mm x 06 basically)??
Or try this one -- a 7mm-08 Its right in the middle of where you are at. Better than the creed for elk, as good for much else. Little less flat shooting that then 6.5, but better than the 308. Look at the 7mm-08 for a b
Did the math on the 7mm08 with a 140 Nosler ballistic tip at 2850. It's awesome. Has 1200 ft pounds all the way to 510 yards. 270 yards shorter than a Creed. 75 yards less than the 308. There is a reason the 6.5 Creed has become so popular. There is also a reason for so many haters. It beats the pants off of so many mid power level cartridges. And a bunch of more powerful rounds at longer range where the high bc pays off. Drink the cool-aid it taste great.
Shep
Why stop with a Needmore, the 6.5 PRC & the 6.5x300 are superior, in every category