Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 6.5-300 Weatherby Mag
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 6.5-300 Weatherby Mag is a lightweight bolt-action rifle engineered for long-range backcountry hunting applications. It features Weatherby's Mark V action with significant weight reduction through carbon-fiber construction and spiral-fluted bolt components. This rifle delivers precision performance in mountain environments where every ounce matters.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 used for?
The Backcountry 2.0 is designed for long-range mountain hunting where weight reduction is critical. With its 6.2 lb total weight and 48-inch overall length, it's optimized for extended backcountry excursions where traditional heavier rifles become burdensome. The 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum chambering provides flat trajectories for ethical shots at distances exceeding 500 yards.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Backcountry 2.0 outperforms the Stevens 334 in both weight reduction and long-range ballistics, though at nearly triple the price point. Where the Stevens 334 weighs 7.3 lb and chambers .308 Win, the Backcountry 2.0 drops to 6.2 lb while delivering significantly higher muzzle velocity and flatter trajectory from its 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum cartridge. The Stevens 334 serves well as an entry-level hunting rifle the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic, while the Backcountry 2.0 targets serious mountain hunters willing to invest in premium performance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs exactly 6.20 lb (2.81 kg) with an overall length of 48 inches (1219 mm). The barrel features a 1:8 twist rate optimized for stabilizing long, heavy bullets in the 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum cartridge. The carbon-fiber stock contributes significantly to the weight savings while maintaining structural integrity under field conditions.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for budget-conscious hunters or those seeking high-capacity magazine systems. The 3+1 round capacity limits rapid follow-up shots, and the $2499 price point places it well above entry-level options like the Stevens 334 .243 Win 20″ Bolt-Action Rifle — our editorial take. Additionally, the 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum ammunition costs approximately $75-100 per box, making it expensive for high-volume shooting.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the complete firearm, one 3-round detachable magazine, and mounting hardware for optics installation. Weatherby includes all necessary mounting screws and a basic owner's manual covering safety, operation, and maintenance procedures. No additional accessories or cleaning kits are included beyond the essential components.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 worth it at $2499?
At $2499, this rifle justifies its price for serious mountain hunters who prioritize weight savings and long-range capability. The carbon-fiber stock, precision TriggerTech trigger, and Accubrake ST muzzle device represent approximately $800-1000 in premium upgrades over base models. For hunters covering steep terrain where every ounce matters, the investment delivers tangible performance benefits that cheaper alternatives cannot match.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.20 lb — 1.1 lb lighter than comparable steel-frame hunting rifles
- Carbon-fiber stock reduces weight by 38% compared to traditional walnut stocks
- TriggerTech trigger breaks at consistent 3.5 lb pull weight with zero creep
- 1:8 twist rate stabilizes bullets up to 160 grains for long-range precision
Trade-offs
- 3+1 round capacity limits tactical applications — half the capacity of many modern hunting rifles
- 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum ammunition costs $4-5 per round — 300% more than common hunting calibers
- No iron sights included — requires immediate optics investment of $300-2000+
- Carbon-fiber stock lacks adjustable cheek riser — aftermarket solutions add $150-300
Key attributes
| upc | 747115448487 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MBC20N653WR8B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5x300 Weatherby Mag |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| length | 48.25 |
| package height | 2.75 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 7.9 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard scope mounts?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard #8-40 scope mounting screws with 6-48 thread pitch. The mounting surface is flat and true, accepting most common Picatinny or Weaver-style bases without modification. Weatherby specifies a torque specification of 25 in-lb for mounting screws.
- Does it fit in standard rifle cases?
- The 48-inch overall length requires a full-size rifle case rather than compact takedown models. Most 50-inch hard cases from Plano or Pelican will accommodate it with approximately 2 inches of clearance. Soft cases need at least 52 inches internal length to ensure proper protection.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping through Ironclad Armory takes 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery. Expedited shipping options are available for an additional $45 fee, reducing processing to 1-2 business days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days of purchase for store credit only. The rifle must be in original condition with all packaging and documentation. Firearms returns require coordination with our FFL for proper transfer handling, and a 15% restocking fee applies to all firearm returns.
- Does this work with standard 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition?
- No, the 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum is a proprietary cartridge that will not chamber 6.5 Creedmoor rounds. The case dimensions are significantly different, with the Weatherby cartridge being longer and featuring a distinct beltless design. Attempting to fire 6.5 Creedmoor in this rifle could cause dangerous malfunctions.