Weatherby has published a design account of its Mark V Backcountry Capra and the 25 WBY RPM cartridge, both aimed at hunters who want a light rifle that still shoots fast. The company describes the project as an outgrowth of its earlier Backcountry rifles and its relaunched Varmintmaster action. Full details are in Weatherby's press release.
What Was Announced
Weatherby introduced the Capra as a lightweight bolt-action built on a shortened Mark V six-lug action, with a target weight of about 4 pounds for the short action and 4.5 pounds for the standard long action. The company also launched the 25 WBY RPM, which it developed to handle heavier, high-ballistic-coefficient bullets that older 257 Weatherby Magnum barrels with slower twist rates cannot stabilize well.
Key Details
- Action: Mark V six-lug short and standard lengths, with the short action cut from titanium
- Target weights: about 4 lb (short action) and 4.5 lb (long action)
- Barrel lengths: 17 to 21 inches
- Weight-saving features: redesigned stock with cutouts, slimmer forearm, blind magazine, double-helix fluting
- Cartridges mentioned: 22, 25, and 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, 25 WBY RPM, 240 WBY Magnum, 6.5 WBY Magnum, 280 Ackley Improved, and 270 Winchester
- Reported performance: the company says a 25 WBY RPM Capra with a 133-grain Berger load delivered over 1,800 fps and 1,200 ft-lbs at 750 yards
What It Means for Gun Owners
For hunters, the release points to a clear tradeoff: the short-action Capra with a 17-inch barrel is the lightest option and suits steep terrain, while the 21-inch versions are positioned for longer-range energy. The company also notes that the 25 WBY RPM's faster twist rate is meant to avoid the stabilization problems owners can run into when using heavier bullets in legacy 257 Weatherby Magnum rifles.
Bottom Line
The Capra and 25 WBY RPM are Weatherby's push toward a light, fast hunting rifle with a full range of matching cartridges. Pricing and availability dates were not included in the release, so check with Weatherby or dealers before buying.
