The Weatherby Vanguard Weatherguard in .243 Winchester is a purpose-built bolt-action rifle designed for reliable operation and consistent precision across diverse environmental conditions. This rifle integrates robust construction with field-proven mechanical design to deliver predictable performance for hunting and general-purpose shooting applications.
Key Features
Robust Construction & Finish
The Vanguard Weatherguard features Weatherby’s proprietary Weatherguard finish, a durable, weather-resistant coating applied to all external metalwork, including the cold hammer-forged barrel and receiver. This bronze finish offers superior corrosion resistance and abrasion protection, mitigating wear in challenging outdoor environments. The rifle is fitted with a synthetic Monte Carlo stock, engineered for ergonomic handling and stability. Its textured grip panels enhance weapon retention and control, particularly in wet or cold conditions, while maintaining a lightweight profile.
Precision Engineering
Precision is maintained through a cold hammer-forged barrel, ensuring consistent bore concentricity and optimizing projectile flight stability. This manufacturing process contributes directly to repeatable accuracy. The rifle incorporates a two-stage trigger system, factory-set for a crisp, predictable break, which can be user-adjusted to fine-tune pull weight, facilitating precise shot placement. Recoil energy is effectively managed by a factory-installed Griptonite recoil pad, which absorbs and dissipates impact, enhancing shooter comfort and follow-up shot acquisition.
Operational Reliability
The Vanguard action utilizes a fluted bolt body with a robust extractor and plunger ejector system, ensuring positive feeding and consistent spent casing ejection. A three-position safety provides critical operational control: the forward position allows firing, the middle position locks the sear while permitting bolt manipulation for safe unloading, and the rearmost position locks both the bolt and the sear for maximum security during transport or storage.
Technical Specifications
- Caliber: .243 Winchester
- Action Type: Bolt Action
- Capacity: 5+1 Rounds
- Barrel Length: 24 inches
- Barrel Material: Cold Hammer-Forged Steel
- Overall Length: Approximately 44 inches
- Weight: Approximately 7.25 lbs (unloaded)
- Finish: Weatherguard Bronze (Durable, weather-resistant coating)
- Stock Material: Synthetic, Monte Carlo Design with Textured Grip Panels
- Trigger: Two-Stage, User-Adjustable
- Safety: Three-Position
- Recoil Pad: Griptonite
- Receiver: Drilled and Tapped for Scope Mounts









