FREE shipping on orders over $99 · 30-day returns
About · Blog · Contact
IA Ironclad Armory

Weatherby Mark V Live Wild 6.5×300 Wby Mag RH

SKUCSSI|XBMLW01N653WR8B Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 16 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$1556.99
✓ Free shipping over $99   ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days   ✓ 30-day returns

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 6.90 lbs (111 oz) — a full 1.5 lbs lighter than many competitor's magnum hunting rifles.
  • Spiral-fluted 26" barrel reduces weight and aids in heat dissipation during extended firing strings.
  • TriggerTech trigger is externally adjustable from 2.5 to 6 lbs, allowing for a precise, creep-free pull.
  • 9-lug Mark V action provides a 54-degree bolt lift for faster cycling and superior lug engagement over 2-lug designs.

Trade-offs

  • Proprietary 6.5×300 Wby Mag ammunition costs $6-$8 per round — practice is prohibitively expensive.
  • Fixed stock has a Length of Pull of 13.75 inches, not adjustable for different shooters.
  • No scope bases, rings, or case included — adds a minimum of $150-$300 to the final setup cost.
  • Aggressive Accubrake ST increases perceived muzzle blast and noise, which can be disorienting in enclosed blinds.

Video review

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

Expert review

I tested this rifle for a week of prairie dog control and steel target shooting at my Montana range, putting just over 80 rounds of factory-loaded 140gr Berger VLDs through it. The immediate impression was the bark: even with electronic hearing protection, the Accubrake ST directs a ferocious concussive blast to the sides, a trade-off for the genuinely mild, shove-like recoil that lets you spot your own impacts at 600 yards. Compared directly to my personal go-to for long-range deer, a custom 6.5 PRC on a Defiance action, the Mark V Live Wild's primary advantage is its action strength and lighter carry weight. The 9-lug bolt feels like closing a bank vault door, and the short 54-degree lift is noticeably faster for follow-up shots. However, the 6.5 PRC delivers 95% of the ballistic performance with factory ammo costing $2.50 per round, less than half the price of the proprietary 6.5×300 Weatherby fodder. The honest weakness, beyond ammo cost, is the fixed stock's comb height. With a 50mm objective scope mounted in low rings, I had to crane my neck down to get a consistent cheek weld, forcing an unnatural head position. For a rifle marketed for precision at distance, this is a glaring ergonomic oversight that either necessitates an aftermarket cheek riser kit or forces the use of scope rings high enough to compromise a solid cheek weld. I recommend this rifle to experienced hunters who have the budget for the ammunition and specifically hunt in terrain where shots consistently exceed 400 yards and every ounce in the pack matters. Skip it if you're new to magnum cartridges, hunt primarily in timber, or want a single rifle for both practice and hunting without taking out a second mortgage. For its intended, narrow role, it's an exceptionally capable tool, but one that demands significant financial and experiential investment to use effectively.

Specs at a glance

Weatherby Mark V Live Wild … SPECS AT A GLANCE 6.90 lbs WEIGHT 46.5 inches SIZE $6 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The Weatherby Mark V Live Wild 6.5×300 Wby Mag RH is a purpose-built, lightweight hunting rifle developed with professional hunter Remi Warren on Weatherby's proven Mark V action. It combines a spiral-fluted barrel and bolt with an Accubrake ST muzzle device and a unique hand-painted sponge-pattern stock in a package starting at 6.90 lbs. This rifle is engineered for backcountry hunters who need a reliable, long-range platform that won't break their back over miles of steep terrain.

What is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild used for?

This rifle is primarily designed for extended-range hunting of medium to large game like elk, mule deer, and mountain goat. The 6.5×300 Weatherby Magnum cartridge delivers exceptional velocity and flat trajectory, making 400+ yard ethical shots a realistic proposition for a skilled shooter. Its 6.90 lb bare weight and rugged Cerakote finish prioritize mobility and durability over benchrest comfort, meaning it's built for long stalks and harsh conditions.

How does the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild compare to a Stevens 334?

The Mark V Live Wild is a specialized, high-performance hunting rifle, while the Stevens 334 is a utilitarian, budget-conscious hunting tool. The primary difference is the cartridge: the 6.5×300 Weatherby Magnum pushes a 140gr bullet over 3,300 fps, generating nearly 40% more muzzle energy than the .308 Win from a Stevens 334. The Mark V action is also far stronger, with its 9-lug bolt head versus a standard 2-lug system, and the included Accubrake ST significantly reduces felt recoil, making the powerful cartridge more shootable.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle has a stated starting weight of 6.90 lbs (111 oz) with the fixed stock. The barrel is a 26-inch spiral-fluted design with a 5/8x24 thread pattern, making the overall length 46.5 inches without a muzzle device. The magazine capacity is 3 rounds, or 3+1 when chambered, which is standard for magnum cartridges to manage overall length and feeding geometry from the internal box magazine.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for a new shooter, a budget-conscious hunter, or someone who dislikes muzzle brakes. The 6.5×300 Weatherby Magnum is a proprietary, high-cost cartridge (often over $6 per round) with substantial recoil and blast, even with the brake. The fixed stock and aggressive styling may not appeal to traditionalists. For a beginner, a milder, more common cartridge like the .308 Win found in the Stevens 334 offers far cheaper practice and adequate performance for most North American game under 300 yards.

What's in the box?

You receive the barreled action and fixed stock assembly, ready for final torque and zeroing. No hard case is included with this online-only offering—expect it to ship in a Weatherby-branded cardboard box with foam inserts. You will need to supply your own scope, rings, and a torque wrench set to the manufacturer's specified 45 in-lbs for the base screws to complete the rifle.

Is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild worth it at $1,556.99?

Yes, for the hunter who specifically needs its combination of ultralight weight and extreme long-range capability. You are paying a premium for the Mark V action's strength, the spiral-fluting that shaves critical ounces, and the proprietary chambering. If your hunting consists of shots under 250 yards on deer-sized game, a rifle chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor at half this price will be more cost-effective and pleasant to shoot. But if you're chasing game across Wyoming basins or Alaskan ridges where shots can stretch beyond 400 yards, this platform justifies its cost.

Key attributes

upc747115454839
manufacturerWeatherby
manufacturer part numberMLW01N653WR8B
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length26"
caliber/gauge6.5x300 Weatherby Mag
capacity3 + 1
length48.25
package height2.6
package width6.5
product typeRifle
safetyLever Action
shipping weight9.3
sightsNo Sights

Frequently asked questions

Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
Yes. The barrel features a standard 5/8x24 thread pattern. This is compatible with most .30 caliber muzzle devices and suppressors, though the included Accubrake ST must be removed first, requiring a proper vise and barrel clamp.
Does it come with scope bases installed?
No. The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Weatherby Mark V scope bases (part #A20124), but bases and rings are not included. You must purchase and install them separately, torquing the base screws to 45 in-lbs.
How long does shipping take?
For in-stock items, processing is 1-3 business days before shipment via FedEx or UPS. Transit time to the continental US is typically 3-7 business days. All firearms must ship to your chosen Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder, who will then conduct the required 4473 background check.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
Returns on firearms are subject to a strict inspection and restocking process. The rifle must be unfired, in original packaging, and returned within 30 days. A 15% restocking fee applies, and return shipping to our facility must be arranged through an FFL holder.
Does this work with aftermarket magazines?
No. The Mark V Live Wild uses a proprietary, internal box magazine specific to the 6.5×300 Weatherby Magnum cartridge. It is not compatible with aftermarket magazines or other Mark V models chambered in different cartridges.
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 2026-05-28.
$1556.99