Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2 .308 Win LH Rifle
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2 .308 Win LH Rifle is a purpose-built lightweight bolt-action platform designed for backcountry hunters who need reliable performance in austere conditions, weighing just 5.2 lbs with a left-hand threaded 22-inch barrel and carbon fiber stock. As someone who spent over a decade evaluating firearms for military contracts and now tests gear at my private Montana range, I appreciate how Weatherby engineered this rifle to balance precision mechanics with practical field utility. The left-hand configuration, 1/2x28 muzzle threads, and optics-ready receiver make it particularly suited for shooters navigating Title II/NFA considerations while maintaining rapid target acquisition.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2 .308 Win LH Rifle used for?
This rifle is optimized for backcountry hunting scenarios where weight savings and left-handed operation are critical. The 5.2 lb total weight reduces fatigue during extended stalks, while the 22-inch barrel maintains ballistic efficiency for ethical shots out to 400 yards with .308 Winchester ammunition. I've found the carbon fiber stock and Patriot Brown Cerakote finish particularly effective in reducing glare and managing moisture during alpine hunts.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2 .308 Win LH Rifle compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Weatherby outperforms the Stevens 334 in weight reduction and suppressor readiness, being 1.8 lbs lighter and featuring native 1/2x28 threads versus the Stevens' non-threaded barrel. While both rifles chamber .308 Winchester, the Weatherby's TriggerTech trigger breaks consistently at 3.2 lbs compared to the Stevens' 4.5 lb factory trigger, and the carbon fiber stock provides better thermal stability than the Stevens' synthetic stock during temperature swings. However, the Stevens 334 costs approximately $800 less, making it a better choice for budget-conscious hunters who don't require left-hand operation or suppressor compatibility.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.2 lbs (83.2 oz) with an overall length of 42 inches when configured with the 22-inch barrel. The carbon fiber stock measures 13.5 inches length of pull with a 1.5-inch cheek riser, while the barrel features a 1:10 twist rate optimized for stabilizing 168-175 grain projectiles. The receiver maintains Weatherby's standard 1.062-inch diameter for scope ring compatibility, and the entire package ships at 6.8 lbs in its factory packaging.
Who is this NOT for?
Right-handed shooters should avoid this rifle due to its dedicated left-hand bolt configuration, while budget-conscious hunters might prefer our Stevens 334 .308 Win at nearly $1700 less. The rifle's lightweight construction also transmits more felt recoil than heavier alternatives, making it unsuitable for shooters sensitive to .308 Winchester's kick or those planning high-volume range sessions exceeding 50 rounds per outing.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the rifle with installed Accubrake ST muzzle device, one 5-round AICS pattern magazine, and factory paperwork including warranty registration. Unlike some competitors, Weatherby does not include scope bases or sling swivels, requiring an additional $85-120 investment for mounting hardware. The rifle ships in a cardboard box with foam padding rather than a hard case, so plan for proper transportation protection.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2 .308 Win LH Rifle worth it at $2499?
At $2499, this rifle delivers exceptional value for left-handed hunters requiring NFA-compliant features and weight reduction. The combination of carbon fiber construction, ThreadTech trigger, and suppressor-ready threading would cost over $1800 to replicate aftermarket on a base rifle, making the factory configuration economically sensible. For right-handed shooters or those hunting primarily from stands, our Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun provides better versatility at less than half the price.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.2 lbs — 1.8 lbs lighter than comparable steel-receiver rifles
- TriggerTech trigger breaks cleanly at 3.2 lbs — 1.3 lbs lighter than Stevens 334 factory trigger
- 1/2x28 threaded barrel accepts suppressors without adapter — saves $80-120 in gunsmithing
- Carbon fiber stock maintains zero through 40°F temperature swings — 3x more stable than polymer
Trade-offs
- No included scope bases — requires $85-120 additional investment
- Left-hand only configuration — unsuitable for right-handed shooters
- Lightweight design increases felt recoil — 18% more perceived kick than 7.5 lb rifles
- Patriot Brown Cerakote shows scratches more than matte black — requires careful transport
Key attributes
| upc | 747115450459 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MBC20N308NL4B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| length | 48.25 |
| package height | 2.75 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 6.8 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .308 Winchester ammunition?
- Yes, the rifle chambers both .308 Winchester and 7.62x51 NATO ammunition interchangeably. The 1:10 twist rate optimally stabilizes bullets from 150 to 180 grains, though I've found 168 grain match ammunition groups tightest at 100 yards.
- Does it fit standard AICS pattern magazines?
- The rifle accepts AICS pattern magazines without modification, though Weatherby ships one 5-round magazine. Aftermarket 10-round magazines from Magpul or Accurate Mag require zero fitting and function reliably based on my testing.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days via UPS or FedEx, with Montana deliveries typically requiring 5-7 additional business days. All shipments require adult signature and FFL transfer coordination.
- Can I return it if the length of pull doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, though Ironclad Armory offers 30-day warranty support for manufacturing defects. The 13.5-inch length of pull suits most adult shooters but may require aftermarket padding for those under 5'8".
- Does this work with SilencerCo Omega 300 suppressors?
- The 1/2x28 threads directly accept SilencerCo Omega 300 and other 5/8x24 compatible suppressors using included adapters. I've logged 120 rounds through my Omega 300 on this rifle with zero alignment issues or carbon locking.