When Academy misordered their 50,000 rounds of Monarch 7.62X39, the liquidation dropped the price per round to $.13. I did not have an AK or much desire to purchase until I loaded up on 3,500 rounds for less than a soccer mom SUV payment. Now that an inexpensive semi auto platform had been secured, I greatly increased my range time. I don't feel guilty shooting 20 rounds at a renegade cactus, beer can, turtle, or whatever.
If there was a clean burning, cheap steel case for 6.8, it would help us expand the sport of 6.8. If I am out with a bunch of non military gun owners, I am reluctant to let them have fun with my $1/round option that needs the "press and propeganda" to increase interest in the caliber. Their desire to shoot the fascinating gun will be tremendous, but I will be compelled to direct them to the cheaper 5.56 and AK route. I have seen 2 friends buy 5.56's from plinking at the ranch so this is a valid point.
Cheap, yet clean burning, 6.8 ammo would also help with breaking in a gun. Whether you believe in the clean it every shot for 100 rounds or that a rig shoots better after it has been shot in, $14/box < $19.XX/box. of course if the lacquer fouls your extractor, you were better off with the more expensive stuff....
I would be interested in this steel case alternative or the SSA plinking.