Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 .300 Wby Mag

About this product

The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 .300 Wby Mag is a purpose-built, lightweight bolt-action magnum rifle designed for backcountry hunters who need to cover miles and shoot accurately. Built around Weatherby’s robust nine-lug Mark V action, its updates specifically target weight reduction and recoil management—critical for high-energy chamberings. At 6.20 pounds, it places itself directly in the ultralight rifle category but with features that aim to control a notoriously punishing cartridge.

What is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 used for?

The Mark V Backcountry 2.0 is engineered for backcountry hunting scenarios demanding carried weight savings and first-shot precision at extended ranges. I recommend it specifically for western hunts across steep terrain for elk or similar game, where hunters may cover 8-10 miles daily and final shots could range from 100 to 400 yards. Its .300 Weatherby Magnum chambering delivers the high retained energy needed for ethical takedowns at those distances, while the Accubrake ST makes managing the substantial recoil more practical for a follow-up shot.

How does the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 compare to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win?

The Backcountry 2.0 is a superior tool for long-range, high-energy hunting, while the Stevens 334 is a better choice for budget-conscious or short-range hunters. The Weatherby’s .300 Wby Mag generates nearly 40% more muzzle energy than a .308 Winchester, making it dramatically more effective for large game at distance, but it also costs over twice as much and has more punishing recoil and ammo cost. The Stevens 334 in .308 is, frankly, a durable, budget workhorse for brush hunting or casual shooting where absolute precision and light weight are secondary to value.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 6.20 pounds, with an overall length of 44 1/2 inches from buttpad to muzzle brake tip. The barrel itself is 24 inches long and threaded 5/8”-24, a common and useful pitch for mounting a variety of muzzle devices or a suppressor to manage the cartridge's blast. The weight centers on the receiver, creating a balance that feels surprisingly quick in the hands for a magnum, but the lighter construction will also transmit more felt recoil than a heavier rifle.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not a rifle for new shooters, budget hunters, or those planning high-volume range sessions. The .300 Weatherby Magnum round is expensive, averaging $4.00-$6.50 per factory round, and produces brutal recoil—even with the Accubrake ST. If you aren’t carrying it for miles or needing its extreme long-range energy for large game, the cost and recoil are unwarranted. It’s a specialized tool; a cheaper, heavier rifle in a milder cartridge like .30-06 is a smarter buy for most shooters.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with the Accubrake ST muzzle brake installed, an empty polymer 3-round detachable magazine, and a standard action wrench for optics mounting. You are not getting a bipod, sling, scope, or soft case—the factory assumes you’re a serious hunter who will select those components based on your specific needs. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped to Mil-STD 1913 specifications for immediate optics mounting, a crucial detail that prevents the need for a gunsmith before your hunt.

Is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 worth it at $2,499?

Yes, if you are an experienced hunter who specifically needs its combination of ultra-light weight and high-power, long-range capability. The price buys you a proven nine-lug Mark V action, a carbon-fiber stock that shaves ounces without sacrificing rigidity, and a recoil system that makes this cartridge manageable for a controlled pair of shots. It’s a targeted purchase that makes sense only for a specific class of backcountry hunt; if that isn’t your use case, consider more versatile and affordable options like the Stevens 555 Sporting for birds or a .308 for general-purpose shooting.