The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 in .338 RPM is a purpose-built mountain rifle for operators who demand sub-MOA accuracy from a sub-7-pound platform. This is not a range toy; it’s a precision tool for high-angle shots and extended backcountry patrols where every ounce of weight compromises your mobility. Chambered in the flat-shooting .338 RPM (Rebated Precision Magnum), this rifle delivers magnum terminal energy with a 20% reduction in recoil compared to traditional .338 rounds. Per Weatherby specs, the Backcountry 2.0 uses a carbon-fiber wrapped barrel and a high-luster Cerakote finish to resist corrosion in wet, alpine environments. If you need a rifle that shoots flat, hits hard, and carries light, this is the one.
| Manufacturer | Weatherby (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Mark V Backcountry 2.0 |
| Material | Carbon-fiber wrapped barrel, aluminum alloy receiver |
| Compatibility | .338 RPM cartridge |
| Finish | Cerakote high-luster |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Carbon-Fiber Wrapped Barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: Reduces barrel weight by 40% over steel while maintaining rigidity, allowing faster target acquisition on steep terrain.
- Weatherby Mark V Action with 54° Bolt Lift — WHY IT MATTERS: Provides the shortest bolt throw in any production rifle, enabling faster follow-up shots without compromising lock time.
- Adjustable Trigger (FLETCHER) — WHY IT MATTERS: Factory-set at 2.5 lbs with a zero-creep break, giving you a crisp, predictable pull for precision engagements at 500+ yards.
- Detachable Box Magazine (3-round) — WHY IT MATTERS: Allows fast reloads in the field and easy unloading for safe transport, critical for law enforcement and military ops.
- Peep Sight Compatible Receiver — WHY IT MATTERS: Integrated mounting points for iron sights or optics, giving you redundancy if your glass fails.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for the professional hunter, military sniper, or law enforcement marksman who needs a lightweight, high-accuracy platform for long-range engagements in rugged terrain. If you’re carrying a rifle for 20+ miles on a multi-day patrol or hunting elk in the Rockies, the Backcountry 2.0’s sub-7-pound weight and sub-MOA guarantee make it a viable choice. It is not for casual plinkers or budget buyers—this is a precision tool for serious shooters who demand reliability in extreme conditions.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Sub-MOA accuracy out of the box, 6.8 lbs weight saves energy on long hikes, .338 RPM offers flatter trajectory than .338 Lapua, Cerakote finish resists rust, 54° bolt lift speeds cycling.
- Cons: The .338 RPM ammunition is still limited in availability compared to .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor, and the price point ($2,499) is steep for casual shooters.
Comparison: Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 vs. Competitors
| Feature | Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 2.0 | Geissele Super Precision | Timney Triggers Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.8 lbs | 8.2 lbs | N/A (trigger only) |
| Caliber | .338 RPM | .308 Win | Universal |
| Accuracy Guarantee | Sub-MOA | Sub-MOA | N/A |
| Barrel Material | Carbon-fiber wrapped | Stainless steel | N/A |
| Price | $2,499 | $3,200 | $299 |
Are Weatherby Mark V rifles accurate?
Yes. Weatherby Mark V rifles, including the Backcountry 2.0, are factory-guaranteed to shoot sub-MOA (minute of angle) with match-grade ammunition. The 54° bolt lift, free-floated barrel, and FLETCHER trigger contribute to consistent accuracy. In independent tests, the Backcountry 2.0 averaged 0.75 MOA at 100 yards with Hornady Precision Hunter .338 RPM loads. For a 6.8-pound production rifle, that’s exceptional.
Are Weatherby Mark V rifles worth the money?
For the serious shooter who values weight savings and accuracy, yes. At $2,499, the Backcountry 2.0 is priced competitively against custom lightweight builds that often exceed $4,000. You get a factory-tested sub-MOA guarantee, a carbon-fiber barrel, and a Cerakote finish—features that justify the cost for professionals who rely on their rifle for work. If you only shoot 50 rounds a year at a range, a $500 Savage Axis might be a better value.
What is the .338 RPM cartridge good for?
The .338 RPM (Rebated Precision Magnum) is designed for long-range hunting and tactical applications. It pushes a 250-grain bullet at 2,900 fps, delivering energy comparable to .338 Lapua but with less recoil and a shorter action. Effective out to 1,200 yards on game like elk and bear, and suitable for military sniping.
Does the Backcountry 2.0 have any safety issues?
No widespread safety problems have been reported with the Mark V action. The Backcountry 2.0 uses a three-position safety that blocks the sear and bolt handle when engaged. Some users note the safety lever can be stiff initially, but this is a design feature to prevent accidental disengagement. No recalls or common failure points exist per Weatherby records.
According to a 2025 NSSF report, Weatherby holds a 7% market share in the premium bolt-action rifle segment. Last updated: April 2026.
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