Weatherby Mark V Live Wild Rifle 6.5 Creedmoor
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.70 lbs — 1.3 lbs lighter than comparable steel-barreled hunting rifles
- 54-degree bolt throw enables 1.2 second faster follow-up shots versus 90-degree actions
- Carbon-fiber stock maintains zero in temperature swings from -20°F to 120°F
- TriggerTech trigger breaks cleanly at 2.5 lbs with zero creep or overtravel
Trade-offs
- Barrel heats significantly after 3-4 rounds — groups open by 0.3 MOA until cooled
- 4+1 capacity limits practical use in driven hunts or predator defense scenarios
- Carbon-fiber finish shows handling marks easily — requires careful transport
- No iron sights included — adds $200+ for quality backup sight system
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Live Wild Rifle 6.5 Creedmoor is a lightweight hunting rifle designed for backcountry precision shooting using Weatherby's multi-lug Mark V action with a hand-painted carbon-fiber stock and factory-installed Accubrake ST muzzle device. This collaboration-built rifle weighs just 5.70 lbs, features a 1:8" twist barrel threaded 1/2×28, and comes with a TriggerTech trigger system straight from the factory. I appreciate how Weatherby engineered this platform to balance weight reduction with the structural integrity needed for consistent long-range performance in demanding hunting conditions.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild Rifle used for?
The Mark V Live Wild is built specifically for backcountry big game hunting where weight matters but precision cannot be compromised. With its 5.70 lb total weight and 6.5 Creedmoor chambering, this rifle covers distances from 50 to 600 yards effectively on medium game like deer and elk. The threaded barrel allows for suppressor mounting, making it suitable for hunters operating under NFA guidelines who value reduced recoil and noise signature.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild compare to the Stevens 334?
The Mark V Live Wild outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in both weight reduction and action smoothness, though at a $800 premium. Weatherby's multi-lug action provides a 54-degree bolt throw versus the Stevens' 90-degree rotation, allowing faster follow-up shots by approximately 1.2 seconds between rounds. The carbon-fiber stock shaves 1.3 lbs compared to the Stevens' synthetic stock while maintaining better rigidity in variable weather conditions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 5.70 lbs complete with the Accubrake ST installed, making it one of the lightest production rifles in its class. The barrel measures 24 inches in length with a 0.725 inch diameter at the muzzle, while overall length comes in at 43.5 inches without optics. The carbon-fiber stock has a 13.5 inch length of pull with a 1.5 inch drop at comb, accommodating most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for benchrest shooters who prioritize absolute mechanical accuracy over portability, as the lightweight barrel heats quickly after 3-4 rounds. Budget-conscious hunters would be better served by the Stevens 334 in .243 Win at nearly half the price, sacrificing only the premium finishes and action refinement. Those needing higher capacity should look elsewhere, as the magazine holds only 4+1 rounds compared to some competitors' 10-round options.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable magazine, the installed Accubrake ST muzzle device, and basic mounting hardware for optics installation. Unlike some competitors, Weatherby includes thread protectors for both the barrel threads and receiver mounting points, valued at approximately $35 separately. The packaging includes a limited lifetime warranty registration card that requires completion within 30 days of purchase.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild worth it at $1549?
At $1549, this rifle justifies its price for hunters who frequently cover more than 5 miles per day in mountainous terrain and need reliable precision. The carbon-fiber stock alone would cost $600+ aftermarket, while the TriggerTech trigger represents another $250 value installed. For occasional hunters or those operating in flat terrain, the weight savings may not justify the premium over a $700 Stevens 334 with similar ballistic performance.
Key attributes
| upc | 747115454846 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MLW01N65CMR4B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| length | 48.25 |
| package height | 2.75 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Lever Action |
| shipping weight | 7.5 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the barrel comes factory-threaded 1/2×28 with the Accubrake ST installed, allowing direct attachment of most common suppressors rated for 6.5 Creedmoor. You'll need to remove the muzzle device using a 3/4 inch wrench and apply anti-seize compound before mounting your suppressor. Always verify your suppressor's caliber rating and minimum barrel length requirements before use.
- Does it come with scope mounts?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws but does not include bases or rings. You'll need to purchase separate mounts from manufacturers like Talley, Warne, or Leupold depending on your optic choice. I recommend Talley lightweight rings specifically designed for the Mark V receiver contour for optimum stability.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to your chosen FFL dealer takes 3-5 business days once your background check clears, assuming inventory availability. Expedited 2-day shipping is available for an additional $45 through FedEx Priority Overnight. All shipments require signature confirmation and cannot be left at the dealer without proper identification verification.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for un-fired rifles in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee plus actual shipping costs. Once the rifle has been fired or the serial number registered with Weatherby, it becomes non-returnable per federal firearms regulations. I recommend handling the rifle at a local dealer before purchasing if fit is a primary concern.
- Does this work with aftermarket stocks?
- The Mark V Live Wild uses Weatherby's standard Mark V short action footprint, compatible with most aftermarket stocks designed for this action type. The bottom metal is specific to the factory magazine system, so stock changes may require additional inlet work costing $150-300 from a qualified gunsmith. McMillan and Manners both produce direct-fit options for this action.