Welcome to the Nation BennyJC. The 257 Weatherby is a great caliber in any model you might choose, however the Accumark may be a bit heavy for long days of still hunting, and, off hand shooting could be a bit of a challenge. The Mark V Backcountry is lightweight and comes with a #2 contour and some great features including the Accubrake ST to help absorb the recoil of a light rifle and a straight stock design. Get a lightweight scope and you're in business. I personally have not handled, or shot the Backcountry to be able to opine on the stock for a general purpose hunting rifle, but we have some members that may be able to help you with that. Good luck. (BTW, if the right person wins the election in November, ammunition will again flourish within about a year and a half or so ) 

Sam the Sham's favorite is here now! The "Wooly Bully" caterpiler! Hope you got your long johns in order!

As much as I like the .257 Weatherby Mag, it wouldn't be my first choice for elk-sized critters and larger.  If I didn't have any other choice, I'm sure the .257 Weatherby Mag would indeed kill an elk...I just like a little more bullet. 

I think it is absolutely perfect for antelope and deer-sized game, however.

+1

I recently sold my 340 and am offering for sale the dies and brass since the buyer was not a reloader. I have a set of RCBS FL dies, 50 rounds of new Norma brass, 30 rounds new Nosler brass and 20 rounds once fired Nosler brass. $125.00 for all shipped lower 48.

As much as I like the .257 Weatherby Mag, it wouldn't be my first choice for elk-sized critters and larger.  If I didn't have any other choice, I'm sure the .257 Weatherby Mag would indeed kill an elk...I just like a little more bullet. 

I think it is absolutely perfect for antelope and deer-sized game, however.