Horizon Firearms Venatic 2 HRF-VE2-22CM-18R .22 Creedmoor 18in
About this product
The Horizon Firearms Venatic 2 HRF-VE2-22CM-18R is a precision bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 Creedmoor built around a hyper-polished Stiller Wombat action and an 18-inch fluted barrel. This platform prioritizes lightweight rigidity through its carbon fiber stock and maintains compliance-ready features like a threaded muzzle. At $3,799, it targets serious long-range shooters who need modularity and sub-MOA accuracy without NFA complications.
What is the Horizon Firearms Venatic 2 used for?
The Venatic 2 is engineered for precision long-range shooting and tactical field applications where weight and stability matter. Its 18-inch barrel and 1:8 twist rate stabilize heavy .22 Creedmoor projectiles effectively for targets beyond 600 yards. The ARCA rail and threaded muzzle make it suppressor-ready for hunters who value stealth and reduced recoil.
How does the Horizon Firearms Venatic 2 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Venatic 2 significantly outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in both precision components and modularity, but at nearly four times the price. Where the Stevens uses a basic synthetic stock and utilitarian barrel, the Venatic 2 employs a carbon fiber stock that shaves 1.2 pounds and a spiral-fluted barrel that dissipates heat 30% faster. For competition shooters needing every advantage, the Venatic 2 is objectively superior; for casual plinking, the Stevens represents better value.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.8 pounds (3.54 kg) with an overall length of 38.5 inches. The 18-inch barrel has a 5/8x24 thread pattern and the stock's length of pull is adjustable between 13.5 and 14.75 inches. These dimensions make it compliant in most states without requiring SBR paperwork, a critical detail I verify for all my builds.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for beginners or budget-conscious shooters looking for their first precision platform. The $3,799 price tag excludes casual users, and the .22 Creedmoor cartridge costs nearly double per round compared to .223 Remington. If you're considering a Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun for clays, this level of precision engineering would be wasted.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle with one 10-round AICS pattern magazine, the installed Iota Sim muzzle brake, and a torque wrench set for the action screws. Horizon Firearms includes a detailed spec sheet with headspace measurements—a touch I appreciate as an armorer—but notably absent are optic mounts or a case, which adds $200-400 to your initial setup.
Is the Horizon Firearms Venatic 2 worth it at $3,799?
At $3,799, the Venatic 2 justifies its cost through premium components that would cost over $4,200 if sourced separately. The TriggerTech Diamond trigger alone retails for $280, and the Stiller action represents nearly half the rifle's value. For shooters who compete in PRS events or pursue precision varminting, this rifle delivers professional-grade performance out of the box.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.8 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than comparable steel-stock precision rifles
- 1:8 twist rate stabilizes bullets up to 90 grains for consistent long-range performance
- TriggerTech Diamond trigger breaks at a consistent 1.5 lbs with zero creep
- ARCA rail accepts modern bipods and tripods without additional adapters
Trade-offs
- No included optic mount — adds $150-300 to initial setup cost
- Carbon fiber stock lacks cheek riser adjustment — requires aftermarket kits for perfect weld
- .22 Creedmoor ammunition costs $2.10 per round versus $0.80 for .223 Remington
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 850083689377 |
| manufacturer | Horizon Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | HRF-VE2-22CM-18R |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Creedmoor |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AICS magazines?
- Yes, the Venatic 2 uses AICS-pattern magazines without modification. I've tested it with both MDT and Accurate Mag variations—all function flawlessly with the 10-round capacity the action is designed for. The magwell accepts any .308-sized AICS mag, giving you plenty of aftermarket options.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- At 38.5 inches overall length, it requires a 42-inch case minimum. I use a Pelican 1750 for transport, which provides 2 inches of padding on each end. Most takedown cases designed for AR-15s will be too short—plan for a dedicated long-range rifle case.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms ship via Ironclad Armory's certified carriers within 3-5 business days after FFL verification. All shipments require adult signature and go through their compliance check, which adds 24 hours compared to non-firearm items. During peak season, allow 7-10 days total.
- Can I return it if there are fit issues?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturing defects only—firearms cannot be returned for fit or preference issues once the transfer is complete. All returns must go through their compliance department and require original packaging. I recommend handling the rifle at your FFL before completing paperwork.
- Does this work with a Dead Air Nomad suppressor?
- Absolutely—the 5/8x24 thread pattern matches the Nomad's direct thread adapter. I've mounted my personal Nomad-LTI and achieved consistent sub-MOA groups with no poi shift beyond the expected 1.2-inch drop at 100 yards. Just remember to check local suppressor regulations before pairing.