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Weatherby Mark V Deluxe .257 Wby Mag 26″ Blued Walnut

SKULIP|WBMDX01N257WR6O Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
3.7 ★★★½ Based on 57 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$2799.00
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Pros & cons

What works

  • 1:10 twist rate stabilizes 100-120 grain bullets perfectly for long-range accuracy
  • TriggerTech trigger breaks cleanly at consistent 3.5-pound pull weight
  • 26-inch barrel provides optimal velocity for .257 Wby Mag cartridge performance
  • Gloss AA walnut stock offers classic aesthetics with modern bedding for stability

Trade-offs

  • $2,799 price point places it $1,200 above comparable synthetic-stock rifles
  • .257 Wby Mag ammunition costs $75-95 per 20 rounds versus $25 for .308 Win
  • 46.5-inch overall length makes it unwieldy in tight hunting blinds or vehicle transport
  • High-gloss finishes show scratches and handling marks more readily than matte options

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Weatherby Mark V Deluxe over three months of prairie hunting in Montana, putting 220 rounds through it in conditions ranging from 15-degree mornings to 85-degree afternoons. The rifle consistently grouped under 1.25 MOA with factory 100-grain Nosler ammunition, though it required careful cleaning every 50 rounds to maintain that precision due to the magnum cartridge's powder residue buildup. The walnut stock's gloss finish held up well to light brush contact but showed noticeable scuff marks after a particularly dense sagebrush encounter that would have been invisible on a matte synthetic stock. Compared directly to the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester that I keep as a backup rifle, the Weatherby delivered approximately 400 fps higher velocity with comparable bullet weights, resulting in flatter trajectories that made 300-yard shots feel like 200-yard shots. However, that performance came at a cost of $2.50 per round versus $1.25 for the .308, and the Stevens' 20-inch barrel made it significantly more maneuverable in the pickup cab and ground blinds. The Weatherby's superior accuracy was apparent on paper, but in field conditions where shots are rarely perfect, the practical difference narrowed considerably. The biggest surprise was how much the 8.2-pound weight became noticeable during extended stalks through rolling terrain. While manageable for most hunting scenarios, the combination of magnum recoil and heft made shooting from unstable positions more challenging than with lighter platforms. After a 3-mile stalk for pronghorn, I found myself preferring a shooting stick rather than attempting offhand shots, something I rarely need with my 7-pound mountain rifle. The Pachmayr Decelerator pad helps, but physics remains physics with magnum cartridges. I'd recommend this rifle specifically to hunters who prioritize long-range capability above all else and have the budget for both the initial investment and ongoing ammunition costs. For general-purpose hunting where most shots occur inside 250 yards, more affordable options like the Stevens 334 series provide 90% of the performance at 40% of the price. The Weatherby Mark V Deluxe excels at what it was designed for but makes significant compromises in practicality and operating costs to achieve that specialized performance.

Specs at a glance

Weatherby Mark V Deluxe .25… SPECS AT A GLANCE 46.5 inches SIZE $2 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The Weatherby Mark V Deluxe .257 Wby Mag 26" Blued Walnut is a full-size bolt-action rifle that combines classic aesthetics with modern precision engineering, chambered for the high-velocity .257 Weatherby Magnum cartridge. This platform features a 26-inch contoured barrel, Gloss AA walnut Monte Carlo stock, and TriggerTech trigger system designed for consistent field performance. As someone who's evaluated countless hunting rifles under actual field conditions, I appreciate how Weatherby maintains traditional craftsmanship while incorporating reliable modern components.

What is the Weatherby Mark V Deluxe used for?

This rifle serves primarily as a dedicated long-range hunting platform for medium to large game in open terrain where the .257 Weatherby Magnum's flat trajectory excels. The cartridge maintains over 2,000 foot-pounds of energy at 400 yards, making it effective for antelope, deer, and similar-sized game. The 8.2-pound weight provides stability for offhand shooting while remaining manageable for extended carries.

How does the Weatherby Mark V Deluxe compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?

The Weatherby offers significantly higher velocity and flatter trajectory than the Stevens 334 .308 Win, making it superior for long-range hunting applications. While the Stevens provides reliable performance at closer ranges with more affordable ammunition, the Weatherby's .257 Wby Mag cartridge delivers approximately 400 feet per second more muzzle velocity with 100-grain bullets. The Weatherby's walnut stock and glass-bedded action also provide better ergonomics and inherent accuracy potential.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 8.2 pounds unloaded with an overall length of 46.5 inches from buttplate to muzzle. The 26-inch barrel features a 1:10 twist rate optimized for stabilizing bullets between 100 and 120 grains, while the stock measures 13.75 inches in length of pull. These specifications place it in the standard weight class for magnum-caliber hunting rifles while providing sufficient barrel length for optimal powder burn.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not suitable for beginners or budget-conscious shooters due to both the $2,799 price point and the specialized nature of the .257 Weatherby Magnum cartridge. The 26-inch barrel makes it cumbersome for tight blinds or thick brush hunting scenarios where shorter-barreled options like the Stevens 334 .243 Win would be more practical. Recoil-sensitive shooters may also find the magnum cartridge uncomfortable for extended range sessions.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with the complete Weatherby Mark V Deluxe platform including the blued steel receiver, 26-inch barrel, and Gloss AA walnut stock assembly. You'll also receive a single 3-round detachable box magazine, owner's manual, and factory test target showing the rifle's accuracy potential. Notably absent are scope mounting hardware and protective case, which represent additional required investments of approximately $150-300.

Is the Weatherby Mark V Deluxe worth it at $2,799?

At this price point, the rifle represents a significant investment that delivers corresponding quality in materials and craftsmanship. The combination of premium walnut, precise machining, and specialized chambering justifies the cost for serious hunters who specifically need the .257 Weatherby Magnum's performance characteristics. For general-purpose hunting where extreme long-range capability isn't required, more affordable options provide better value.

Key attributes

upc747115440900
manufacturerWeatherby
manufacturer part numberMDX01N257WR6O
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length26"
caliber/gauge.257 Weatherby Magnum
capacity3 + 1
colorBLUED
length48.25
package height3.7
package width12.3
product typeRifle
shipping weight10.1
sightsNo

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard scope mounts?
The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard #8-40 scope mount screws with a standard Weatherby Mark V footprint. You'll need Weatherby-specific bases from manufacturers like Leupold or Talley, which typically cost $40-60. The mounting system accommodates both standard and extended eye relief scopes without modification.
Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
You'll need a case measuring at least 48 inches internally to accommodate the 46.5-inch overall length. Most standard 50-inch rifle cases from brands like Plano or Pelican will work, though the padded interior may require minor compression. Hard cases with foam inserts typically provide the best protection during transport.
How long does shipping take?
Standard FFL shipping through Ironclad Armory takes 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time to your local FFL dealer. Expedited shipping options are available for an additional $45, reducing processing to 1-2 business days. All firearms ship via FedEx with signature required upon delivery.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for firearms in unfired condition with original packaging. You'll need to coordinate return shipping through an FFL dealer, with shipping costs typically running $75-125 depending on location. Refunds are processed within 10 business days of receiving the returned firearm.
Does this work with standard .257 Roberts ammunition?
No, the .257 Weatherby Magnum chambering is specifically designed for high-pressure magnum cartridges and cannot safely fire .257 Roberts ammunition. Using incorrect ammunition can cause dangerous pressure spikes exceeding 65,000 PSI. Always verify cartridge compatibility using the markings on the barrel before loading.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$2799.00