Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 25 WBY RPM, 24-inch Bolt Action
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 is a left-hand bolt-action rifle chambered in 25 WBY RPM engineered for ultralight backcountry hunting where every ounce matters. This 5.4-pound precision instrument combines Weatherby's nine-lug action geometry with modern materials and suppressor-ready features that serious hunters demand. When you're counting miles between glassing points, this rifle makes the weight-to-performance calculus undeniable.
What is this rifle used for?
This rifle is designed specifically for extended backcountry hunts where minimal weight and maximum precision are non-negotiable. The 25 WBY RPM cartridge delivers flat trajectory out to 400 yards with authority, making it ideal for mountain goat, sheep, and mule deer in steep terrain. At 5.4 pounds unloaded, it's 1.2 pounds lighter than our Stevens 334 in .308 Win, giving you tangible endurance advantage on multi-day pack-ins.
How does it compare to the Stevens 334 in .243 Win?
The Backcountry 2.0 outperforms the Stevens 334 in both ballistic efficiency and mechanical refinement, though at nearly triple the price. Weatherby's 25 WBY RPM generates 3,340 fps muzzle velocity with 115gr bullets compared to the .243 Win's 2,960 fps, delivering 400 ft-lbs more energy at 300 yards. The TriggerTech factory trigger breaks at 2.75 pounds versus the Stevens' 4-pound pull, providing noticeably crisper break for precision shots.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs exactly 5.40 pounds (2.45 kg) unloaded with an overall length of 44.5 inches including the 24-inch fluted barrel. Barrel twist rate is 1:10 to stabilize the high-velocity 25 WBY RPM cartridges, while the 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates most shooters without modification. The fluted barrel removes 6.8 ounces of weight compared to a standard contour while maintaining rigidity.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for budget-conscious shooters or those who prefer right-hand actions, as the left-hand configuration limits aftermarket stock options. The 25 WBY RPM ammunition costs $85-95 per box compared to $35 for .308 Win, making practice sessions significantly more expensive. If you're primarily hunting from stands or blinds under 200 yards, the Stevens 334 in .243 Win delivers adequate performance at one-third the price.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable magazine, thread protector for the 5/8-24 threaded muzzle, and standard mounting hardware for optics. Unlike some competitors, Weatherby includes thread alignment tools and torque specifications for proper suppressor mounting—critical for maintaining concentricity. The packaging includes detailed NFA compliance information for registering as a Short-Barreled Rifle if cutting the barrel below 16 inches.
Is this rifle worth it at $2,499?
At $2,499, this rifle justifies its price through exacting weight reduction and specialized cartridge performance that cheaper alternatives can't match. The 25 WBY RPM delivers 15% more energy at 400 yards than 6.5 Creedmoor while weighing 22 ounces less than comparable long-range rifles. For hunters covering 10+ miles daily in elevation, the weight savings translates directly to increased shooting stability at the end of long days.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.4 lbs — 22 oz lighter than comparable long-range hunting rifles
- 25 WBY RPM delivers 3,340 fps muzzle velocity — 380 fps faster than .257 Weatherby Magnum
- TriggerTech trigger breaks at 2.75 lbs — 1.25 lbs lighter pull than factory Stevens triggers
- 24-inch fluted barrel removes 6.8 oz weight while maintaining stiffness
Trade-offs
- Left-hand only configuration limits aftermarket stock options — right-hand shooters must adapt
- 25 WBY RPM ammunition costs $90/box — 2.5x more expensive than common hunting calibers
- No iron sights included — requires immediate optics investment adding $300+ to total cost
- Fixed stock design — cannot adjust length of pull without aftermarket replacement
Key attributes
| upc | 747115463343 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MBC20N25RWR6B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 25 WBY RPM |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| safety | Thumb |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel thread compatible with standard suppressors?
- Yes, the 5/8-24 thread pitch accommodates most .30 caliber suppressors including SilencerCo Omega 300 and Dead Air Nomad models. Always verify suppressor bore clearance for the .257 bullet diameter as some .30 cal cans have tight tolerances.
- Does it come with optic mounting bases?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws but bases are not included. I recommend Weatherby's own 20 MOA rail ($89) or Talley lightweight rings for maintaining the rifle's weight philosophy. Installation requires 18 inch-pounds torque specification.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to licensed FFL holders takes 3-5 business days within continental US via FedEx Priority Overnight. All firearms require adult signature and FFL paperwork completion before release—allow 24 hours for background check processing.
- Can I convert this to right-hand operation?
- No, the Mark V action is machined specifically for left-hand bolt throw and cannot be converted. The ejection port geometry and bolt handle angle are mirror-image specific to left-hand operation only.