Weatherby Vanguard Weatherguard 22-250 Rem 24″
Pros & cons
What works
- Cold-hammer-forged 24-inch barrel maintains accuracy through 3,000+ rounds
- Burnt Bronze Cerakote finish survives 500-hour salt spray testing — 4x better than bluing
- Two-stage match trigger breaks cleanly at 3.5 pounds with minimal creep
- 5-round capacity matches most varmint hunting regulations without modification
Trade-offs
- 1:14 twist rate limits bullet selection to 55 grains maximum — insufficient for modern heavy .224 projectiles
- No included scope mounting hardware adds $50-75 to effective cost
- Monte Carlo stock design creates cheek weld issues for some shooters using low-mounted optics
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Weatherby Vanguard Weatherguard 22-250 Rem 24″ is a precision-oriented bolt-action rifle designed for varmint control and long-range small game hunting, built on Weatherby's proven Howa-based action with corrosion-resistant Cerakote finishing. This rifle represents Weatherby's entry into the practical, no-nonsense sporting rifle market with features typically found on more expensive platforms. At $809.99, it occupies a competitive price point between budget options and premium hunting rifles.
What is the Weatherby Vanguard Weatherguard used for?
The Weatherby Vanguard Weatherguard is engineered specifically for varmint hunting and precision small-game applications where shot placement matters more than rapid fire. The 22-250 Remington chambering delivers flat trajectories out to 400 yards, with the 24-inch barrel maximizing velocity for coyote, prairie dog, and predator control work. The threaded muzzle accommodates suppressors for reduced noise signature during extended shooting sessions.
How does the Weatherby Vanguard Weatherguard compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Weatherby outperforms the Stevens 334 in both barrel quality and corrosion resistance, though it costs approximately $200 more. While the Stevens 334 offers basic functionality in calibers like .308 Win and .243 Win, the Weatherby's cold-hammer-forged barrel and Cerakote finish provide superior longevity in wet conditions. The Weatherby's two-stage match trigger also offers cleaner break characteristics compared to the Stevens' single-stage design.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.8 pounds empty and measures 44.5 inches overall with its 24-inch barrel configuration. The synthetic stock contributes to the manageable weight while maintaining structural integrity, and the 13.75-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters comfortably. The barrel diameter tapers from 0.980 inches at the receiver to 0.650 inches at the muzzle.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for beginners seeking their first firearm or hunters needing quick follow-up shots. The 22-250 Remington generates significant muzzle blast and barrel heat, making it less ideal for high-volume shooting sessions without proper cooling intervals. Additionally, the 1:14 twist rate limits bullet weight selection compared to faster-twist barrels found on competing varmint rifles.
What's in the box?
The package includes the complete rifle with installed 5-round magazine, owner's manual, and warranty documentation. Unlike some competitors, Weatherby does not include scope mounting hardware or cleaning kits, requiring additional purchases of approximately $50-75 for basic optic mounting. The hinged floorplate design simplifies unloading but lacks the quick-detach functionality of some magazine systems.
Is the Weatherby Vanguard Weatherguard worth it at $809.99?
At $809.99, the Weatherguard represents solid value for serious varmint hunters needing corrosion resistance and threaded muzzle capability. The Cerakote finish alone adds $150-200 in value compared to blued alternatives, while the cold-hammer-forged barrel typically commands a $100 premium over button-rifled options. For comparison, our Stevens 334 starts at $599 but lacks both the threaded muzzle and weather-resistant finishes.
Key attributes
| upc | 747115442850 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | VWB222RR4T |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | .22-250 Remington |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | BRONZE |
| length | 48.25 |
| package height | 2.75 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | 3 Position |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Does the threaded muzzle accept standard suppressors?
- Yes, the 1/2x28 thread pattern accommodates most .22 caliber suppressors from manufacturers like SilencerCo and Dead Air. The threads are cut to SAE specifications with proper relief cuts for secure mounting. Always verify thread alignment before final tightening.
- What scope base fits this rifle?
- The Weatherby Vanguard uses standard Weatherby #4 scope bases, identical to Howa 1500 mounting patterns. We recommend Warne Maxima steel bases for heavy-recoil applications or EGW Picatinny rails for tactical setups. Installation requires proper torque specification of 25-30 inch-pounds.
- How long is the warranty period?
- Weatherby provides a limited lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects for the original purchaser. The warranty registration must be completed within 30 days of purchase through Weatherby's online portal. Proof of purchase is required for all warranty claims.
- Does it come with iron sights?
- No, the Weatherguard is configured as a scope-only platform without iron sights installed. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts only. Adding aftermarket iron sights would require gunsmith installation and cost approximately $150-200 for quality components.