Tested and Reviewed: Weatherby Model 307 Range XP 2.0

The Weatherby Model 307 bolt action introduced in 2023 reminds us that the Weatherby family gene of doing things their way is still present in their DNA. But why would the company take on another bolt-action product line with the Model 307? The defining Mark V introduced in 1958 and the Vanguard in 1971 would seem to have the market covered. However, after 50-plus years, Weatherby felt it was time to introduce something new.

The 2019 move from California to Wyoming facilitated onsite machining and engineering resources so Weatherby could consider a fresh design and more importantly the manufacturing capacity to make the Model 307 at the new Sheridan headquarters. By the way, 307 is the area code for Sheridan—a nice way to pay homage to Weatherby’s new community. Weatherby’s latest rifle fills the gap between the Mark V and Vanguard for hunters. It can also be readily modified by end users (think of the PRS scene) via a plethora of aftermarket enhancements. The Model 307’s two-lug cylindrical action is similar to the Remington Model 700 and thus compatible with many existing aftermarket components.

MODEL 307 REDEFINED

Weatherby engineers did not slavishly copy the Model 700. They took advantage of the opportunity to offer improvements as well. First up is the use of the TriggerTech Field trigger. TriggerTech triggers are some of the most sought-after enhancements for bolt actions with their crip, adjustable pulls. Other changes include the bolt release being relocated to the left side of the action, where it’s easier to manipulate, and forgoing the hinged floor plate in lieu of bottom metal for accommodating detachable magazines. The Model 307’s oversized ejection port is a nod to shooters who often chase ballistic advantage with longer-profile bullets and handloaders who hang projectiles farther out of the case pursuing accuracy. Less obvious Model 307 tweaks are a three-piece bolt with simple toolless takedown and an M16-style extractor in the bolt face.

The Model 307 version I tested is the Range XP 2.0. Weatherby decided to give the Range XP a facelift from its initial arrival a few years back. Marketing Manager Tyler Grethen explained that the company wanted to offer more value to the consumer thanks to in-house production facility investments paying dividends. The Range XP 2.0’s stock was upgraded via a hand-painted sponge pattern. The skip-fluted barrel was another obvious change. The 2.0’s aesthetics are certainly eye-catching in a rifle that maintains a similar cost as the original variant.

The Range XP 2.0 keeps Weatherby’s sub-MOA accuracy guarantee, just like the maker’s other models. The Model 307 action is the rifle’s foundation, and it is smooth and slick to operate. It’s important to note that the Model 307 has a Stiller/Savage pattern and not a Remington 700 pattern for optic bases. For the barrel, the Model 307 uses the same stainless steel match-grade barrel as found on the Mark V. The barrel is 1/2x28 threaded. A Weatherby Accubrake is included with the rifle, along with a protective thread cap. With its slim-contour, 22-inch barrel (24-inch if the Accubrake is installed), the Range XP 2.0 has a well-balanced 7.4-pound weight and 41 3/4-inch length. A Graphite Black Cerakote finish is applied to the barrel and bolt, with other exposed metal components coated in similarly colored black.

The Range XP 2.0’s composite stock has a black adjustable cheekpiece. The distinctive Weatherby Monte Carlo cheekpiece is gone, but the comb does have a slight arch for a positive cheek weld. Spacers can be added or deleted to control the length of pull. The nearly vertical pistol grip on the stock and the ambidextrous palm swell do a great job of putting the shooter in a comfortable position to manipulate the trigger. The Range XP’s stock features a svelte, flat-bottomed fore-end, aluminum pillar construction and is textured where the shooter’s hand interfaces. Dual swivel studs adorn the fore-end along with one also in the buttstock. A detachable MDT box magazine holds five rounds of 7 mm PRC, the chambering of the test rifle.

That’s right—a non-Weatherby cartridge in a Weatherby rifle. For some time, Weatherby has been chambering rifles for non-Weatherby cartridges, and it continues with the Range XP 2.0.

RANGE DAY

During testing, overall accuracy was impressive with all loads grouping under the desired 1-inch mark. The Federal Premium 155-grain Terminal Ascent load took the accuracy title with groups hovering around the 1/2-inch mark. Three rounds into 3/4 inch or better at 100 yards was the norm; most of the time five rounds went into 3/4 inch. The Weatherby Model 307 Range XP 2.0 is the type of rifle that leaves no doubt it can perform.

Real proficiency begins with realistic practice scenarios. Range evaluation at Echo Valley Training Center (EVTC) consisted of taking advantage of a recently added 3-gun rifle range with plates set up at four distances stretching past 400 yards down a ravine following natural contours. The impact made on the steel targets, even at 400 yards, demonstrated the 7 mm PRC delivers the payload. The five rounds in the detachable magazine cycled smoothly, and it was possible to single-feed cartridges. No malfunctions of any kind were experienced even during the rapid operation of the bolt.

The Model 307 Range XP 2.0 allows a wider spectrum of hunters to benefit from Weatherby attributes such as sub-MOA accuracy, a rock-solid and fast-operating action, ergonomic stock design and a state-of-the-art trigger. Whether it’s chambered for a Weatherby cartridge or not, the Model 307 Range XP 2.0 builds on Weatherby’s reputation for performance.

SPECIFICATIONS: Weatherby Model 307 Range XP 2.0

• TYPE: bolt-action centerfire rifle
• CALIBER: 7 mm PRC (tested)
• BARREL: 22"; No. 2 contour with skip fluting; 1/2x28 threaded muzzle (cap and Accubrake provided)
• TRIGGER: TriggerTech Field; 3 1/2-lb. pull weight; user-adjustable to 2 1/2 lbs.
• SAFETY: two-position toggle
• MAGAZINE: detachable box; 5+1 round capacity
• SIGHTS: none; receiver drilled and tapped for mounting optics
• STOCK: composite; hand-painted sponge finish
• METAL FINISH: Graphite Black Cerakote
• OVERALL LENGTH: 41 3/4"
• WEIGHT: 7.4 lbs.
• MSRP: $1,279

ACCURACY RESULTS: Weatherby Model 307 Range XP 2.0

Federal Terminal Ascent

• Bullet Weight: 155 gr.
• Muzzle Velocity: 2,983 fps
• Average Group: .63”

Hornady Outfitter CX

• Bullet Weight: 160 gr.
• Muzzle Velocity: 2,914 fps
• Average Group: .88”

Hornady Precision Hunter ELD-X

• Bullet Weight: 175 gr.
• Muzzle Velocity: 2,887 fps
• Average Group: .75”

Muzzle velocity is the average of 10 consecutive shots as measured by a Caldwell chronograph. Accuracy is the average of five consecutive, three-shot groups fired from a sandbag rest at 100 yards.

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• This article was featured in the June/July 2025 issue of Game & Fish magazine. Click to subscribe.

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