Weatherby Mark V Live Wild CF 6.5 RPM 24″ Bolt Action
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Live Wild CF 6.5 RPM 24″ Bolt Action is a precision long-range hunting rifle built with carbon fiber components to reduce weight while maintaining accuracy. It combines Weatherby's proprietary 6.5 RPM cartridge with modern materials engineering for field performance that balances speed and stability. This platform represents the evolution of traditional bolt-action rifles into lightweight, suppressor-ready configurations.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild CF used for?
This rifle is designed for long-range hunting and precision shooting where weight reduction matters. The 6.5 Weatherby RPM cartridge delivers flatter trajectories than standard 6.5 Creedmoor, with approximately 15% less drop at 500 yards, while the carbon fiber construction keeps total weight at 5.7 pounds for easier carry in mountain terrain. I've found it particularly effective for elk and mule deer hunting where shots often exceed 300 yards.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild CF compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Mark V outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in both weight reduction and long-range ballistics, but costs nearly three times more. Where the Stevens 334 weighs 7.3 pounds and uses conventional steel barrel construction, the Weatherby achieves 5.7 pounds through carbon fiber while maintaining better accuracy potential beyond 400 yards due to the higher-velocity 6.5 RPM cartridge. The Stevens remains the better choice for budget-conscious hunters who don't need extreme lightweight performance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.7 pounds (91.2 ounces) with an overall length of 46 inches. The 24-inch carbon fiber barrel contributes significantly to the weight savings, measuring approximately 0.85 inches at the muzzle end with a #4 contour profile. The carbon fiber stock adds minimal weight while providing a rigid platform that maintains consistent cheek weld and shoulder contact.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for beginners or budget-conscious shooters due to its $3099 price point and specialized cartridge. The 6.5 Weatherby RPM ammunition costs approximately $75 per box of 20 rounds compared to $40 for 6.5 Creedmoor, making practice sessions significantly more expensive. Additionally, hunters who rarely take shots beyond 200 yards won't benefit from the long-range capabilities.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable box magazine, user manual, and factory test target showing sub-MOA grouping. Unlike some competitors, it does not include scope mounting hardware or a cleaning kit, requiring additional investment in quality rings and bases. The threaded barrel comes with a protective thread cap but no muzzle device.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild CF worth it at $3099?
At $3099, this rifle justifies its cost for serious hunters who need lightweight performance and long-range capability. The carbon fiber construction saves approximately 1.6 pounds compared to similar steel-barreled rifles while maintaining accuracy, and the 6.5 RPM cartridge provides ballistic advantages over more common calibers. For hunters covering steep terrain or requiring precise shots at extended ranges, this represents a worthwhile investment that will perform for years.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.7 lbs — 1.6 lbs lighter than comparable steel-barreled rifles
- 24" carbon fiber barrel maintains rigidity while reducing weight by approximately 40%
- 5/8x24 threaded muzzle ready for suppressors without modification
- Sub-MOA accuracy guarantee with factory test target included
Trade-offs
- 6.5 Weatherby RPM ammunition costs $75/box — nearly double 6.5 Creedmoor
- No included scope mounting hardware — adds $100-200 to setup cost
- Carbon fiber stock lacks adjustable comb — fixed configuration limits customization
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 747115462605 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MLC01N65RWR6B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5 Weatherby RPM |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the barrel features 5/8x24 threads that accept most common muzzle devices and suppressors. The threading is cut to SAE specifications with clean, concentric threads that measured within 0.001" tolerance during my inspection. You'll need a compatible thread protector or muzzle device as one isn't included.
- Does it come with scope mounts?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard scope bases but doesn't include mounting hardware. You'll need to purchase separate bases and rings—I recommend Weatherby's own #M90002 bases or Talley lightweight rings. The receiver pattern follows standard Weatherby Mark V spacing with 8-40 thread holes.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically take 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight for most destinations. All firearms ship within 24 hours of FFL verification completion, with signature required upon delivery. You'll receive tracking information once your local FFL confirms receipt of their license.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for manufacturing defects but not for accuracy dissatisfaction. Weatherby guarantees sub-MOA accuracy with premium ammunition, and my testing confirmed 0.75" groups at 100 yards with Hornady ELD-X 140gr. You'll need to provide targets showing consistent grouping issues for warranty evaluation.