Questions about Japanese made Weatherby Mark V

[Desertrat357]

I might have an opportunity to buy a weatherby mark V chambered in 7mm WBY mag. I've done a little bit if research and I think they were made by Howa. Basically my question is how is the quality of this vintage weatherby. And also what kind of prices they are selling for. Any info is much appreciated.

 

[HexHead]

Only the Vanguard is made by Howa, and it's just the receiver. The Mark V was made by Miroku in Japan between 1973 and 1995. Miroku makes all the Browning Citori shotguns, many Browning rifles, and now some of the Winchester rifles, like the Model 1873. They do first class work. I have a Browning T-Bolt rifle they made and the workmanship is second to none.

Prior to Miroku making the Mark V, they were made by J.P. Sauer in Germany. In 1995, Weatherby moved the production of the Mark V to California.

 

[Desertrat357]

Excellent. That's what I get for believing what I read online. Thanks for the information.

 

[Geno]

The Japan Mark Vs are excellent rifles. The Japanese know how to make excellent steel and forge it strong. I have had several Mark Vs, from Japan and the current USA model. Prices will vary depending on chambering, the model and the condition of the rifle. The Lasermark typically costs more than the Deluxe. They both cost more than the Fibermark.

Let me ask, why are you thinking of the 7mm Wea Mag, when the 7mm Rem Mag is nearly identical in performance, and half the ammo cost? My own current Mark V, is a synthetic, upgraded with a Bell & Carlson stock, chambered in .300 Win Mag. My favorites in the Mark V line-up are the .257 Wea Mag and the .300 Wea Mag. I never had to shoot twice, even at 525 yards...one-shot; one-instant kill.

Geno

 

[jimbeaux82]

I have this exact rifle, 7mm Wea Mag Mark V, made in Japan. Bought it over 20 years ago and it has been a great rifle - no issues at all. Price will depend on what stock it comes with. Is it the deluxe wood version or the cheaper synthetic Weathermark version?

 

[Desertrat357]

It's the cheaper weathermark version. But I think the price point, at least right now is more then fair. It's on gunbroker, so if the price shoots up too much I'll pass on it. The reason I'm looking at the 7mm wea mag is I like the fact that it is a shorter case than the 300 and the other big weatherbys so powder consumption will be slightly less and also I've never had a 284 before. I handload which will help a little bit, and I'm willing to pay a little more for the ammo if I can end up with the rifle. I figure if I can get the rifle for a fair price, I can love with the synthetic stock and higher cost of ammo, because I'll still be getting a legendary mark v chambered in one of the original four weatherby mag calibers.

 

[HexHead]

The 7mm WBY Mag uses the same brass as the .257 WBY. Using Nosler bullets, I use 71gr. of powder to load my .257. You're going to love that rifle.

If you miss out on that one, consider the .257, it was Roy's favorite of his calibers.

 

[jimbeaux82]

I handload as well. You can use 257 Wea or 270 Wea and resize neck to 7mm and load them right up with no problems. If you are resizing 257, be sure and lube the inside of the neck to prevent collapse or cracking. 270 is close enough that you dont have to worry.

 

[Desertrat357]

Well I'll know but this weekend if I'll be the new owner of a weatherby MK V. I'll be sure and post pictures if it ends up working out.