Weatherby’s New-for-2012 Rifles Unveiled
On its website, Weatherby has released info on dozens of new-for-2012 bolt action rifles. You’ll find new carbine-length as well as full-length models in stainless or black matte finish. Weatherby has released some special youth models for 2012, as well as some new “varmint specials”. There are some new rifle packages which include a Simmons scope and Leupold rings. Available calibers now include .338 Lapua (in the Mark V Accumark series). Among the new Vanguard Series 2 rifles, “Range Certified” models ($1099 MSRP) offer a accuracy guarantee. But frankly, we’re not particularly impressed with Weatherby’s 1-MOA for three shots “Range Certified” guarantee. You can find off-the-shelf Savages and Tikkas that can shoot 1 MOA or better, for a lot less money.
For existing Weatherby rifle owners, Weatherby now offers a Detachable Box Magazine (DBM) retro-fit kit. This $89.00 kit combines a 3-round DBM with new plastic floorplate and trigger housing. Weatherby says the DBM Kit saves 1/4 lb. of weight as compared to hinged bottom metal. The DBM system will release mags at the push of a button. This kit is currently available for .25-06 Rem., .270 Win. and .30-06 Springfield Weatherby rifles. It also fits many Howa 1500 actions, including S&W and Mossberg Howa 1500 varients.