Weatherby Mark V Live Wild .243 Win 4+1 Carbon Gray
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Live Wild .243 Win 4+1 Carbon Gray is a purpose-built hunting rifle developed in partnership with professional hunter Remi Warren, featuring a carbon-fiber stock and specialized muzzle device for field performance. Built on Weatherby's proven Mark V action, this rifle combines precision engineering with practical hunting features. It's designed for hunters who demand reliability and reduced weight during extended backcountry excursions.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild .243 Win used for?
This rifle is designed for medium-game hunting at ranges up to 400 yards, specifically optimized for deer and antelope in varied terrain. The .243 Winchester caliber provides flat trajectory with manageable recoil, while the 4+1 capacity balances practical hunting needs with weight savings. I've found it particularly effective in mountainous terrain where every ounce matters.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Weatherby outperforms the Stevens 334 in trigger quality and barrel construction, but costs $800 more. While the Stevens 334 offers basic .243 Win functionality at $749, the Weatherby features a superior TriggerTech unit breaking at 2.5 pounds versus the Stevens' 4-pound factory trigger. The Weatherby's spiral-fluted barrel also dissipates heat faster during sustained fire.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.8 pounds unloaded and measures 42.5 inches overall with a 24-inch barrel. This puts it 1.2 pounds lighter than comparable wood-stock hunting rifles while maintaining a balanced 13.5-inch length of pull. The carbon fiber stock contributes significantly to the weight reduction without sacrificing rigidity.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for budget-conscious buyers or those needing high-capacity magazine options. At $1549, it's positioned above entry-level options like the Stevens 334, and the fixed magazine limits tactical applications. Left-handed shooters should also look elsewhere as it's configured for right-hand operation only.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable magazine, owner's manual, and cable lock—no optic mounts or cleaning kit included. The Accubrake ST muzzle device comes pre-installed with 1/2×28 threading, compatible with most .243 suppressors. You'll need to purchase scope rings separately, which typically adds $60-120 to the initial setup cost.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild worth it at $1549?
Yes, for serious hunters who value weight reduction and trigger quality, though budget shooters might prefer the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. The carbon fiber construction and TriggerTech trigger justify the premium for backcountry use where ounces add up over miles. For range shooting or occasional use, the price is harder to justify against $800 alternatives.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 6.8 lb total weight — 1.2 lb lighter than comparable wood-stock rifles
- TriggerTech trigger breaks at 2.5 lbs — 1.5 lbs lighter than factory Stevens triggers
- Carbon fiber stock reduces weight by 14 oz versus traditional synthetic
Trade-offs
- Fixed 4+1 capacity — cannot use higher-capacity magazines
- No iron sights included — requires $200-500 optic investment
- Right-hand only configuration — no left-hand model available
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 747115454730 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MLW01N243NR4B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .243 Winchester |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| length | 48.25 |
| package height | 2.7 |
| package width | 6.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 7.7 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .243 Winchester ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers all SAAMI-spec .243 Win ammunition including 80-100 grain hunting loads. The 1:7.5 twist rate stabilizes heavier projectiles better than the common 1:10 twist found on many factory rifles. I've tested it successfully with Federal Premium 100 grain soft points.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it fits most 44-inch rifle cases with room to spare. The overall length of 42.5 inches allows clearance in standard hard cases while the 24-inch barrel doesn't require specialized long-gun containers. Plano's All-Weather 52-inch case provides ample space for optics.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically process within 3-5 business days after paperwork clearance. We ship via UPS Ground with 2-5 day transit times to most continental US locations. All firearms require verified FFL documentation before shipment.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations. We allow returns only for manufacturer defects within 30 days, which must be shipped through licensed FFL holders. Fit and feel should be verified through handling at your local FFL before transfer.
- Does this work with SilencerCo Omega 300 suppressors?
- Yes, the 1/2×28 threading is compatible with SilencerCo's .30 caliber suppressors using appropriate mounts. The Accubrake ST must be removed first, which requires proper tools and care to avoid damaging the crown. I recommend using SilencerCo's ASR mount system for secure attachment.