Weatherby Mark V Deluxe Varmintmaster 224 WBY Walnut
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Deluxe Varmintmaster 224 WBY Walnut is a premium, short-action bolt rifle designed for varmint and precision small-game hunting with classic aesthetics and modern functionality. It combines Weatherby's renowned 6-lug Mark V action with a high-gloss AA-grade walnut stock and a threaded barrel for suppressor compatibility. This rifle represents a deliberate investment in mechanical precision rather than mass-production economics.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Deluxe Varmintmaster 224 WBY Walnut used for?
This rifle is purpose-built for varmint hunting and precision small-game shooting at ranges up to 400 yards where wind deflection becomes problematic with lighter projectiles. The 1:8" twist rate stabilizes 55-grain bullets effectively, while the 6.8-pound weight provides stability for off-hand shots without excessive fatigue during extended stalks. The threaded 1/2×28 barrel accepts suppressors or muzzle brakes, reducing report and recoil for follow-up shots on prairie dog towns or coyote stands.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Deluxe Varmintmaster compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Weatherby Mark V Deluxe Varmintmaster offers superior fit, finish, and mechanical precision compared to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win, though at nearly triple the price point. Weatherby's 6-lug action provides a 54-degree bolt lift versus the Stevens' 90-degree throw, enabling faster cycling and lower scope clearance requirements. The AA-grade walnut stock features hand-cut checkering at 22 lines per inch, while the Stevens uses a molded synthetic stock with impressed checkering at 18 LPI—a tangible difference in both aesthetics and grip security during wet conditions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.8 pounds (108.8 oz) with an overall length of 42.5 inches and a 24-inch barrel measuring 0.830 inches at the muzzle. The walnut stock measures 13.75 inches length of pull with a 1.5-inch drop at comb and 2.25-inch drop at heel, accommodating most adult shooters without modification. The action measures 1.375 inches in diameter with a 3.4-inch magazine well capable of housing 0.224 WBY cartridges with an overall length up to 2.360 inches.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for budget-conscious hunters or those seeking a lightweight mountain rifle for extended backcountry carries. At $2799, it commands a premium over entry-level bolt actions like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, and the 6.8-pound weight becomes noticeable after 8+ hours of rugged terrain. The high-gloss walnut finish shows scuffs and moisture rings more readily than matte finishes or synthetics, making it less ideal for harsh weather or rough handling.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 3-round detachable box magazine, swivel studs installed, and a soft rubber recoil pad measuring 0.75 inches thick. Documentation includes a owner's manual, warranty card valid for 2 years from purchase date, and a chamber flag for safe transport. Notably absent are optics bases—expect to spend $45-85 on quality rings and bases as the receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws but includes no hardware.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Deluxe Varmintmaster worth it at $2799?
Yes, for shooters who value mechanical precision, classic aesthetics, and suppressor-ready functionality in a varmint-specific platform. The cost reflects the AA-grade walnut stock ($600+ if purchased separately), hand-bedded action, and Weatherby's reputation for sub-MOA accuracy guarantees. Compared to custom builds using aftermarket actions and stocks, this rifle arrives ready for optics and range time without gunsmithing—saving 4-6 weeks of wait time and $500-800 in labor costs.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 1:8" twist stabilizes 55-grain bullets at 3,400+ FPS—ideal for varmints out to 400 yards
- 6-lug action with 54-degree bolt lift clears scopes 0.5" lower than 90-degree actions
- AA-grade walnut stock with 22 LPI checkering provides secure grip in all conditions
- Threaded 1/2×28 barrel accepts suppressors without adapter—saves $80-120 in gunsmithing
Trade-offs
- No included optics bases—requires $45-85 additional investment in rings/mounts
- High-gloss finish shows scratches and moisture rings easier than matte alternatives
- 6.8-pound weight noticeable during extended carries—1.2 pounds heavier than synthetic-stocked equivalents
Key attributes
| upc | 747115459544 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MDX01N224WR4T |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 224 WBY Mag |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 10.1 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 muzzle devices?
- Yes, the 1/2×28 threaded barrel accepts most AR-15 pattern muzzle devices, though I recommend verifying thread engagement with suppressors due to variance in manufacturer specifications. For .224 caliber suppressors, consider SilencerCo's Omega 300 or Dead Air's Nomad-L—both handle the cartridge's 65,000 PSI maximum pressure safely.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it fits most 44-inch takedown cases with room to spare, though the high-gloss finish benefits from silicone-impregnated fabric sleeves during transport. The overall length of 42.5 inches allows storage in smaller cabinets compared to long-action rifles measuring 46+ inches.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Shipping typically requires 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground, varying by destination. All firearms ship with adult signature required and must be sent to your chosen FFL dealer—have their license information ready before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired rifles in original condition, though you'll incur a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs. For accuracy concerns, I recommend testing with at least 40 rounds of quality ammunition like Hornady 55gr VMAX before considering return—barrels often require 20-30 rounds to settle in.