Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in high-performance hunting rifles. The Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 280 AI Bolt-Action Rifle delivers Weatherby’s legendary accuracy in an ultralight mountain-ready package. Chambered in the hard-hitting .280 Ackley Improved, this rifle balances power with portability. Available now for $799.00 with same-day shipping from our Kansas facility.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
Detailed Specifications
| Product Type | Bolt-Action Rifle |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .280 Ackley Improved |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Action | Mark V 9-Lug |
| Stock Material | Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composite |
| Finish | Cerakote |
| Barrel Length | 24″ |
| Overall Length | 44.5″ |
| Weight | 5.75 lbs |
| Twist Rate | 1:9″ |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | WB-MKV-BC280AI |
Key Features
- Ultralight carbon fiber composite stock reduces weight without sacrificing durability
- Weatherby’s precision 9-lug Mark V action for smooth cycling and reliability
- Stainless steel barrel with Cerakote finish resists mountain weather conditions
- Chambered in .280 Ackley Improved – flatter trajectory than standard .280 Remington
- Sub-MOA accuracy guarantee with premium ammunition
- Recessed crown protects muzzle precision
- Adjustable trigger (2.5-4 lbs pull weight)
Who This Rifle Is For
Buy it if:
- You’re a backcountry hunter needing a lightweight rifle that won’t sacrifice long-range performance
- You appreciate the ballistics of the .280 Ackley Improved cartridge
- You demand Weatherby’s reputation for precision engineering
- You need a rifle that can handle rough terrain and variable weather
Skip it if:
- You prefer heavier target rifles (see our target rifle selection)
- You need a budget-priced hunting rifle (consider our entry-level options)
- You primarily hunt in dense brush where shorter barrels are preferred
Pros & Cons
✅ Advantages:
- Remarkably lightweight at just 5.75 lbs for easy mountain carry
- Superior .280 AI ballistics outperform standard .280 Remington loads
- Weatherby’s sub-MOA accuracy guarantee
- Durable Cerakote finish protects against harsh elements
- 9-lug action provides smooth cycling and strength
❌ Limitations:
- .280 AI ammunition can be harder to find than more common calibers
- Premium features come at a higher price point than entry-level rifles
- 24″ barrel may feel long for some hunting situations
How It Compares
| Feature | Weatherby Mark V Backcountry | Remington Model 700 | Tikka T3x Lite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $799 | $650 | $750 |
| Weight | 5.75 lbs | 7.0 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
| Action | 9-lug Mark V | 2-lug | 2-lug |
| Barrel Finish | Cerakote | Blued | Stainless |
| Accuracy Guarantee | Sub-MOA | 1.5 MOA | Sub-MOA |
| Stock Material | Carbon Fiber Composite | Walnut | Synthetic |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry online?
You can purchase the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry 280 AI directly from Kansas Gunshop at kansas-gunshop.com with same-day shipping from Wichita, KS.
Is the .280 Ackley Improved suitable for elk hunting?
Absolutely. The .280 AI delivers ballistics similar to the 7mm Remington Magnum, making it an excellent choice for elk at reasonable distances.
What’s the advantage of the 9-lug action?
Weatherby’s 9-lug design provides a shorter bolt lift (54°) than standard actions while maintaining exceptional strength for high-pressure cartridges.
Does this rifle come with scope mounts?
The Backcountry comes drilled and tapped for scope mounts but does not include bases or rings. We offer compatible mounting systems.
How does the .280 AI compare to 7mm-08?
The .280 AI delivers significantly more energy (300-400 ft-lbs) at all ranges compared to 7mm-08, with flatter trajectory.
What’s the warranty coverage?
Weatherby provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser against defects in materials and workmanship.
Is this rifle California compliant?
Yes, the Mark V Backcountry meets California compliance requirements as shipped from the factory.
✅ Same-day shipping from Wichita, KS
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
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This review reflects hands-on experience with the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry from a Kansas FFL dealer perspective. We test and inspect all firearms before shipment.
Last updated: April 2026
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