WEATHERBY MARK V FRONTIER 6.5-300 26″
About this product
The Weatherby Mark V Frontier 6.5-300 26" is a magnum-chambered, long-range bolt action rifle engineered for maximum velocity and flat trajectory. Built on Weatherby's signature nine-lug Mark V action known for strength and smooth operation, this model features a 26-inch premium button-rifled barrel specifically contoured to withstand the pressures of the proprietary 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum cartridge. It represents the practical frontier application of Weatherby's high-performance legacy.
What is the Weatherby Mark V Frontier 6.5-300 26" used for?
This rifle is built for extended-range hunting and precision shooting where wind deflection and energy retention are critical. The 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum cartridge, driven by a large magnum case, pushes 140-grain projectiles to velocities exceeding 3,400 feet per second, maintaining supersonic flight and lethal energy well beyond 1,200 yards. It's purpose-built for western hunters targeting mule deer, pronghorn, and similarly sized game across vast, open country where shots often exceed 400 yards.
How does the Weatherby Mark V Frontier 6.5-300 26" compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Mark V Frontier is a specialist tool for extreme long-range performance, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is a generalist workhorse. The 6.5-300 Weatherby delivers roughly 30% more muzzle energy and a trajectory that is 15 inches flatter at 500 yards than the .308 Winchester, but it does so at the cost of significantly higher recoil and a premium price tag for both rifle and ammunition. The Stevens 334 is the better choice for budget-conscious shooting within 600 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7 pounds, 8 ounces (3.4 kg) unloaded and without optics, a manageable weight for its purpose. It has an overall length of 46.5 inches due to the 26-inch barrel, and a length of pull measuring 13.75 inches. The barrel features a 1:7.5" twist rate optimized for stabilizing long, high-BC 6.5mm bullets essential for long-range performance.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not a rifle for new shooters, budget hunters, or those who shoot in dense timber. The substantial recoil, muzzle blast, and ammunition cost—expect to pay $90 per box for factory loads—make it a poor choice for casual plinking or short-range deer stands. If your typical hunting shot is under 300 yards in wooded terrain, a standard cartridge like the 6.5 Creedmoor or .270 Winchester offers more than enough performance without the punishing blast and expense.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action mated to a synthetic stock, one 3-round AICS-pattern detachable box magazine, and basic mounting hardware. Notably, the package does not include scope bases or rings, a recoil pad beyond the standard synthetic buttplate, or a hard case—you will need to purchase these separately, adding approximately $150-$300 to your initial setup cost before you can zero the rifle.
Is the Weatherby Mark V Frontier 6.5-300 26" worth it at $4,649?
Yes, but only for the specific shooter who needs and can utilize its extreme performance envelope. At this price point, you are paying for the proprietary Mark V action's strength and smoothness, the chambering in a low-drag, high-velocity proprietary cartridge, and a fit-and-finish level well above utilitarian rifles like the Stevens 334. If your use case involves consistent, ethical shots beyond 600 yards on game, it justifies the investment. For everyone else, it's an expensive and punishing novelty.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Chambered for 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum – delivers over 3,400 fps with 140gr bullets for extreme long-range flat trajectory
- Built on 9-lug Mark V action – 54% more locking lug surface than a standard Mauser-type action for strength with high-pressure loads
- 26" premium button-rifled barrel – provides necessary length for full powder burn of magnum case and improves velocity by ~75 fps over a 24" barrel
- Accepts AICS-pattern magazines – enables reliable feeding and easy capacity changes compared to proprietary blind magazines
Trade-offs
- Significant recoil and muzzle blast – generates over 28 ft-lbs of free recoil energy, nearly double a .308 Winchester, making a muzzle brake highly advisable
- Very high ammunition cost – factory loads cost approximately $5 per round, making practice and barrel break-in (recommended 50-100 rounds) expensive
- No optic mounting solution included – requires separate purchase of bases and rings, adding $80-$200 to initial setup cost
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 747115460014 |
| manufacturer | Weatherby |
| manufacturer part number | MFT01N653WR8B |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5x300 Weatherby Mag |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| sights | Iron |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 6.5mm projectiles?
- Yes, it uses standard .264" diameter (6.5mm) projectiles. However, due to its fast 1:7.5" twist rate, it is optimized for longer, heavier bullets like the 140+ grain ELD-M or Berger Hybrid designs to achieve maximum ballistic coefficient and stability at long range. Lighter varmint bullets may not stabilize correctly.
- Does it come with scope bases installed?
- No. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, but bases are not included. You will need to purchase separate bases. Weatherby Mark V actions typically use a specific 8-40 screw pattern; we recommend seeking mounts from manufacturers like Talley, Leupold, or Warne specifically listed for the Mark V.
- Can I fire 6.5 Creedmoor or .264 Winchester Magnum in this rifle?
- Absolutely not. The 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum is a proprietary, belted magnum cartridge. Attempting to chamber and fire shorter, lower-pressure cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor or even the .264 Win Mag is extremely dangerous and will likely cause a catastrophic failure. Only use ammunition clearly marked as 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Once your order and FFL information are verified, processing typically takes 2-3 business days. Ground shipping to most continental US locations adds another 5-7 business days transit time. You must coordinate the transfer directly with your chosen FFL holder upon shipment.