Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 .300 PRC 28-inch Rifle

About this product

The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 .300 PRC 28-inch Rifle is a lightweight mountain hunting rifle designed for long-range precision in extreme backcountry conditions, weighing just 6.20 pounds with specialized recoil management systems that make it surprisingly manageable for a magnum cartridge platform. Built around Weatherby's proven Mark V action, this rifle represents the current evolution of lightweight long-range hunting tools, balancing minimal carried weight with maximum ballistic performance where shots often exceed 400 yards in challenging terrain. Chambered in .300 Precision Rifle Cartridge, this rifle delivers the external ballistics necessary for ethical kills at extended ranges while maintaining the portability required for mountain hunting where every ounce matters.

What is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 used for?

The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 is specifically designed for mountain hunting of large game where long shots and difficult terrain require both extreme precision and lightweight portability. With its 28-inch fluted barrel and .300 PRC chambering, this rifle generates the velocity needed for flat trajectories at distances exceeding 600 yards while the 6.20-pound total weight makes it practical for extended backcountry excursions where hunters might cover 10+ miles daily with 3,000+ feet of elevation gain. The combination of Accubrake ST muzzle brake, 3D HEX recoil reducer, and TriggerTech trigger creates a shooting experience that's manageable enough for follow-up shots even with full-power .300 PRC loads.

How does the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 compare to the Stevens 334?

The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 significantly outperforms the Stevens 334 in both long-range accuracy and weight reduction, though at nearly triple the price point of the $800 Stevens platform. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win provides basic hunting capability at moderate ranges, the Weatherby delivers precision-grade accuracy potential (often sub-MOA with factory ammunition) and specialized mountain hunting features like the 19-ounce carbon fiber stock and fluted barrel that reduce weight by approximately 2 pounds compared to a similarly configured steel-barreled rifle. The Weatherby's .300 PRC chambering also provides substantially better external ballistics than the .308 Winchester, with roughly 1,000 ft-lbs more energy at 500 yards and significantly less wind drift due to higher BC bullets.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 weighs 6.20 pounds (2.81 kg) empty with an overall length of 48 inches and barrel length of 28 inches. The carbon fiber stock contributes significantly to the lightweight design at just 19 ounces (538 grams), while the fluted barrel profile reduces weight without sacrificing the stiffness needed for consistent accuracy. The rifle maintains a 1:8.5 twist rate that stabilizes heavy .30 caliber projectiles up to 250 grains, and the 28-inch barrel length maximizes velocity potential for the .300 PRC cartridge, typically achieving 2,950-3,000 fps with 225-grain factory ammunition.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not suitable for beginners, budget-conscious hunters, or those hunting in dense timber where shots rarely exceed 100 yards. The $2,499 price point positions this as a specialized tool for experienced hunters who specifically need long-range capability in lightweight packaging, and the .300 PRC's substantial recoil (even with the muzzle brake) requires proper shooting technique to manage effectively. Hunters who primarily pursue deer-sized game at moderate ranges would be better served by less expensive options like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win, which delivers adequate performance at half the cost and with significantly less recoil.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with the Accubrake ST muzzle brake installed, one 3-round detachable box magazine, and basic paperwork including owner's manual and warranty information. Unlike some competitors, Weatherby does not include scope mounting hardware or a sling, requiring additional investment of approximately $150-300 for quality rings, bases, and a suitable sling system. The receiver comes pre-drilled and tapped for standard scope mounting patterns, accepting #8-40 screws for secure optics attachment that can withstand the .300 PRC's substantial recoil impulse.

Is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 worth it at $2499?

At $2,499, the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 represents significant value for serious mountain hunters who specifically need long-range precision in an ultra-lightweight package. When compared to custom-built alternatives with similar specifications (carbon fiber stock, fluted barrel, precision trigger), this factory offering typically comes in $800-1,200 less expensive while delivering comparable accuracy potential and weight savings. For hunters who regularly pursue elk, moose, or bear in mountainous terrain where shots beyond 400 yards are common, the combination of lightweight portability and long-range capability justifies the investment, particularly when considering the cost of unsuccessful hunts due to inadequate equipment.