The Weatherby Mark V Live Wild in .257 WBY Mag with a 26-inch barrel is a production-grade hunting rifle built for precision over distance. Chambered in the high-velocity .257 Weatherby Magnum, this bolt-action delivers flat trajectories and retained energy past 400 yards. The Live Wild series uses a Cerakote finish and a synthetic stock for field durability. This is a factory-direct rifle, not a custom build, priced at $1549.0.
| Manufacturer | Weatherby (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Mark V Live Wild |
| Material | Steel barrel, synthetic stock |
| Compatibility | .257 Weatherby Magnum ammunition |
| Finish | Cerakote (color varies by Live Wild series) |
| Weight | Approx. 6.75 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 26-inch fluted barrel: Reduces weight by 0.5 lbs compared to non-fluted barrels while maintaining stiffness for consistent harmonics. Why it matters: Lighter carry weight without sacrificing accuracy on long stalks.
- Cerakote finish: Corrosion-resistant coating tested to 1,000+ hours of salt spray exposure. Why it matters: Rifle survives wet hunts and coastal environments without rust.
- Mark V action with 54° bolt lift: Shorter bolt throw than standard 90° actions for faster follow-up shots. Why it matters: Critical when tracking wounded game at distance.
- Adjustable trigger (AccuTrigger-style): Factory set at 3.5 lbs, user-adjustable from 2.5 to 5 lbs. Why it matters: Dial in trigger weight for cold-weather gloves or precision bench work without a gunsmith.
- Detachable box magazine (3-round capacity): Steel magazine with anti-tilt follower for reliable feeding. Why it matters: Faster reloads and safer unloading than internal box magazines.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for hunters and long-range shooters who prioritize velocity and flat trajectories over heavy recoil. The .257 WBY Mag pushes a 100-grain bullet at 3,600 fps, making it effective on deer, antelope, and coyotes out to 500 yards. It’s also suited for shooters who want a lightweight rifle (under 7 lbs) for mountain hunting without custom pricing.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Flat trajectory reduces holdover calculations at extended ranges.
- Con: Ammunition availability and cost are higher than .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor.
- Pro: Cerakote finish withstands field abuse better than blued steel.
- Con: Factory stock lacks adjustable cheek riser for scope alignment.
Comparison
| Feature | Weatherby Mark V Live Wild .257 WBY | Geissele Super Duty .308 | Timney Triggers Competition .308 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .257 WBY Mag | .308 Win | .308 Win |
| Action | Bolt-action | Semi-auto | Bolt-action (custom) |
| Barrel Length | 26 in | 16 in | 20 in |
| Weight | 6.75 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 8.2 lbs |
| Price | $1,549 | $2,200 | $1,800 |
| Best For | Long-range hunting | DMR/tactical | Benchrest/competition |
FAQ
What is the effective range of the Weatherby Mark V Live Wild .257 WBY?
With factory loads, the .257 WBY Mag retains 1,000 ft-lbs of energy at 400 yards. The rifle is accurate to 1 MOA or better at 200 yards with quality ammunition.
Is this rifle suitable for left-handed shooters?
The standard model is right-handed. Weatherby offers left-hand Mark V actions on special order, but the Live Wild series is currently right-hand only.
What optics mounting system does it use?
The receiver is drilled and tapped for Weaver-style bases. Use Weatherby #72170 or #72171 bases for a direct fit. Scope ring height depends on objective lens diameter.
Does the rifle come with a scope?
No. The rifle ships with no optics. You’ll need to purchase bases, rings, and a scope separately.
Trust & Delivery
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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