Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 338 WBY RPM Bolt-Action
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 338 WBY RPM is a lightweight, precision bolt-action rifle engineered specifically for long-range backcountry hunting. It combines a carbon-fiber stock and advanced corrosion-resistant metal treatment to deliver reliable performance in demanding field conditions. Built around the proprietary .338 Weatherby RPM cartridge, this platform represents a modern approach to a classic mountain rifle role.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 used for?
This rifle is designed for hunters pursuing game at extended distances in mountainous or backcountry terrain where every ounce matters. The 6.3 lb unloaded weight directly addresses the physical demands of high-elevation stalks, while the .338 WBY RPM cartridge provides terminal ballistics suitable for elk, moose, and similar large game at ethical ranges beyond 400 yards. Its 46-inch overall length balances handling in thick timber and open alpine zones, making it a true do-everything mountain rifle.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 compare to a Stevens 334 in .308 WIN?
The Backcountry 2.0 is significantly more specialized and expensive than a budget bolt-action like the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, justifying its $2499 price tag with premium materials and ballistic performance. At 6.3 lbs, it's approximately 20% lighter than the Stevens 334's 7.5 lb weight, a critical difference over miles of elevation gain. The proprietary .338 WBY RPM round produces approximately 4100 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, a substantial 55% increase over the .308 Winchester's 2650 ft-lbs, translating to longer effective range and greater authority on large game.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.3 lbs (100.8 oz) unloaded and measures 46 inches in overall length. The barrel itself features a 1:10" twist rate optimized for stabilizing heavy .338 caliber projectiles, while the fluted profile reduces weight without sacrificing stiffness. The 4-round detachable magazine adds minimal bulk, keeping the ready-to-fire package under 7 lbs with optics and a loaded magazine—a critical threshold for serious backcountry hunters.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for beginners, budget-conscious shooters, or anyone who primarily hunts from a stationary blind over food plots. The .338 WBY RPM ammunition costs approximately $75-95 per box of 20 rounds, making practice expensive compared to common calibers like .308 Winchester. Additionally, the rifle's lightweight construction transmits recoil more directly than heavier platforms; shooters sensitive to muzzle energy should consider adding a suppressor, which requires navigating ATF Form 4 paperwork and an additional $200 tax stamp—a complexity many recreational hunters avoid.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the Accubrake ST muzzle device pre-installed, one 4-round detachable polymer magazine, and basic factory documentation. Notably absent is any thread protector for the 5/8"-24 muzzle threads, meaning you'll need to purchase one separately if you plan to remove the brake for suppressor use or transport. There's no included optic mounting solution, so budget for quality rings or a rail system and expect a 15-20 minute installation process with proper torque tools.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 worth it at $2499?
At $2499, this rifle delivers excellent value for experienced hunters who specifically require its combination of extreme lightness and long-range capability. The carbon-fiber Fixed Peak 44 stock and Patriot Brown Cerakote finish provide durability that justifies the premium over a $600 rifle like the Stevens 334. If your hunting involves covering 5+ miles daily with 3000+ feet of elevation gain while preparing for shots beyond 350 yards, this rifle's weight savings and cartridge performance are worth the investment. For everything else, a more conventional rifle will serve just as well at half the cost, like the versatile Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge for closer-range opportunities.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.3 lbs (100.8 oz) — 1.2 lbs lighter than many conventional .338 Win Mag platforms
- Patriot Brown Cerakote finish provides 500+ hours of salt spray corrosion resistance
- TriggerTech trigger breaks cleanly at 3 lbs with zero creep or overtravel
- Carbon-fiber stock reduces weight by approximately 28% versus traditional fiberglass
Trade-offs
- No thread protector included — requires $15-25 accessory purchase for suppressor use
- .338 WBY RPM ammunition costs $4.25-4.75 per round, limiting practice volume
- Lightweight construction increases perceived recoil by approximately 15% versus 8.5 lb rifles
- Factory magazine capacity limited to 4+1 versus 5+1 in some competing mountain rifles
Key attributes
| upc | 747115463367 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MBC20N338WR6B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 338 WBY RPM |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| safety | Thumb |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the muzzle threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the 26-inch barrel features 5/8"-24 threads under the factory-installed Accubrake ST muzzle device. This is the standard thread pitch for .338 caliber suppressors from manufacturers like SilencerCo and Dead Air. You'll need to purchase a thread protector separately if you remove the brake without immediately mounting a can.
- What optics base does this rifle use?
- The Mark V Backcountry 2.0 receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Remington 700 pattern bases. Torque the base screws to 25 in-lbs using a quality torque wrench—overtightening can strip the aluminum receiver threads. I recommend using a one-piece precision rail from Nightforce or Seekins for maximum stability under recoil.
- Does it come with a thread protector?
- No, Weatherby ships this rifle with the Accubrake ST muzzle device installed directly on the barrel threads. If you remove the brake for suppressor use or transport, you must purchase a separate 5/8"-24 thread protector. Expect to pay $15-25 for a steel protector from brands like Midwest Industries.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground with adult signature required. Shipping to most FFL dealers in the continental US takes 4-7 business days. Your chosen FFL must email their license to [email protected] before we can release the shipment.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- All firearm sales are final except for genuine manufacturing defects verified by our inspection. We recommend testing with at least three different factory ammunition types totaling 40 rounds before assessing accuracy. If a genuine defect exists, contact us within 30 days with targets and ammunition details for evaluation—expect a 3-4 week turnaround for warranty assessment.