If you’re chasing tight groups at distance with a lightweight setup that won’t drag you down on the hike to your shooting spot, the Horizon Firearms Vandal Prime .22 Creedmoor 18 inch Spiral-Fluted is a serious contender. This bolt-action precision rifle pairs a premium 416R stainless steel barrel with an Iota EKO carbon fiber stock, giving you a stable, consistent platform whether you’re punching paper at the range or working a field position. The 18-inch spiral-fluted barrel keeps weight down and heat dissipation up, while the threaded muzzle and Iota sim brake tame recoil so you can spot your own hits. It’s a purpose-built rig for shooters who want long-range accuracy without the heavy price tag of a custom build.
| Manufacturer | Horizon Firearms |
|---|---|
| Model | Vandal Prime |
| Caliber | .22 Creedmoor |
| Barrel Material | 416R Stainless Steel |
| Stock Material | Iota EKO Carbon Fiber |
| Action | Horizon Stiller Bolt Action |
| Barrel Length | 18 inches (spiral-fluted, threaded) |
| Trigger | TriggerTech |
| Muzzle Device | Iota Sim Brake |
| Weight | ~7.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 416R Stainless Steel Barrel – Why it matters: This is the same blank material used by top PRS shooters. It’s corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, and holds sub-MOA accuracy round after round. The spiral fluting sheds weight without sacrificing stiffness, so you carry less and shoot flatter.
- TriggerTech Trigger – Why it matters: A crisp, adjustable trigger with zero take-up and a clean break. You’ll feel the exact moment the sear releases, which means fewer pulled shots and tighter groups at distance.
- Iota EKO Carbon Fiber Stock – Why it matters: This stock is textured where you grip it and rigid where you need it. Carbon fiber keeps the rifle light enough for all-day carry, but the chassis design locks the action in place for repeatable accuracy.
- Threaded Muzzle with Iota Sim Brake – Why it matters: The 5/8×24 threading lets you run a suppressor or brake. The included sim brake cuts recoil noticeably, letting you spot impacts through the scope without losing your sight picture.
- Horizon Stiller Bolt Action – Why it matters: The action is machined to tight tolerances with a 60-degree bolt lift. It cycles smoothly, feeds from AICS magazines, and gives you quick follow-up shots when you’re working a stage.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for the recreational shooter who wants to stretch out to 600-800 yards without the weight of a full-blown competition rig. It’s also a solid pick for the first-time long-range buyer who wants a do-it-all setup that’s ready to hunt or hit steel right out of the box. If you’re the kind of shooter who values a lightweight, accurate platform that doesn’t need a gunsmith to run well, this is your rifle.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Sub-MOA accuracy guarantee, lightweight carbon stock, smooth TriggerTech trigger, threaded barrel for suppressor use, AICS magazine compatibility.
- Cons: The Iota EKO stock has limited LOP adjustment compared to some chassis systems, so taller shooters may need to check fit before buying. Also, .22 Creedmoor ammo is less common than 6.5 Creedmoor, so plan your supply chain accordingly.
Comparison: Vandal Prime vs. Competitors
| Feature | Horizon Firearms Vandal Prime | Zev Technologies Z-19 Bolt | Geissele Super Precision |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Creedmoor | 6.5 Creedmoor | 6.5 Creedmoor |
| Barrel Length | 18 inches, spiral-fluted | 20 inches, standard contour | 22 inches, heavy profile |
| Weight | ~7.2 lbs | ~9.5 lbs | ~12 lbs |
| Stock/Chassis | Iota EKO Carbon Fiber | Zev aluminum chassis | Geissele aluminum chassis |
| Price | $2,999 | $3,500 | $3,200 |
| Best For | Lightweight precision, field use | PRS competition | Benchrest, heavy build |
The Vandal Prime undercuts both competitors in weight and price while maintaining the same accuracy standard. It’s the lightest option here by a wide margin, making it ideal for shooters who hike to their positions.
FAQ
What is the barrel twist rate on the Horizon Firearms Vandal Prime .22 Creedmoor?
Per Horizon Firearms specs, the 18-inch spiral-fluted barrel has a 1:7 twist rate, optimized for heavy .22 Creedmoor bullets (80-90 grain) that give you the best long-range performance.
Does the Vandal Prime come with a scope or rings?
No optics included. The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard 6-48 screws, so you’ll need to add your own scope and rings. It’s set up for any 30mm or 34mm scope tube.
Can I use this rifle for hunting?
Absolutely. At 7.2 lbs with the carbon stock, it’s light enough for spot-and-stalk hunting. The .22 Creedmoor delivers flat trajectories and good energy on varmints and medium game out to 400 yards.
What magazines does it use?
It accepts AICS pattern magazines, which are widely available from brands like Magpul and Accurate-Mag. You’ll get a 10-rounder in the box.
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Last updated: April 2026
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