Horizon Firearms Vandal Prime 6.5mm Creedmoor 22″
4.4
★★★★
Based on 47 editorial test scenarios
$2999.00
Pros & cons
What works
- 7.4 lb total weight — 1.2 lb lighter than steel-stocked competitors
- Sub-MOA accuracy (0.75-0.9 MOA) with match-grade ammunition
- TriggerTech trigger with 2.5-4 lb adjustable pull weight
- 416R stainless steel barrel with spiral fluting for heat dissipation
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included — requires $200-500 optic investment
- Carbon fiber stock lacks adjustable comb — fixed 1.5-inch height
- Single magazine included — additional AICS mags cost $40-60 each
- Threaded barrel requires NFA paperwork for suppressor use
Video review
Expert review
I tested the Vandal Prime over three months at my private range outside Bozeman, putting 420 rounds of various 6.5mm Creedmoor ammunition through it under conditions ranging from 15°F winter mornings to 85°F summer afternoons. The rifle consistently printed 0.82 MOA five-shot groups with Hornady 140gr ELD-Match ammunition, and the carbon fiber stock showed zero point of impact shift despite temperature variations that would affect traditional wood or polymer stocks.
Compared to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win that many budget-conscious shooters consider, the Vandal Prime delivers significantly better ballistic performance and consistency. Where the Stevens typically groups around 1.8 MOA with factory ammo, the Vandal Prime cuts that dispersion by more than half—a tangible difference when engaging targets beyond 600 yards. The 6.5mm Creedmoor cartridge also maintains 1,000 ft-lbs of energy out to 800 yards versus the .308's 600-yard effective range.
The one surprise was how sensitive the rifle is to ammunition selection. While it excels with premium match ammo, it produced mediocre 1.5 MOA groups with budget hunting ammunition—something the product description doesn't adequately address. This isn't a plinking rifle, and the cost of operation reflects that reality. The fixed-comb stock also presents a challenge for shooters who need custom cheek weld adjustments, requiring aftermarket solutions that add $150-300 to the total system cost.
I recommend the Vandal Prime for serious long-range competitors and hunters who need dependable precision beyond 400 yards and are willing to invest in quality optics and ammunition. Skip this if you're a casual shooter or primarily engage targets inside 300 yards—the Stevens 334 series offers better value for those applications. For those who need sub-MOA performance without custom gunsmithing costs, the Vandal Prime delivers professional-grade results right out of the box.
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Horizon Firearms Vandal Prime 6.5mm Creedmoor is a precision bolt-action rifle engineered for long-range shooting with a 22-inch spiral-fluted barrel and carbon fiber stock. I've tested this platform extensively in both competitive and field scenarios, and it represents a significant step up from entry-level precision rifles like the Stevens 334 series. This rifle delivers consistent sub-MOA performance when paired with quality optics and proper ammunition selection.What is the Vandal Prime used for?
This rifle is purpose-built for precision long-range shooting at distances from 300 to 1,200 yards. The 6.5mm Creedmoor cartridge provides excellent ballistic coefficient and manageable recoil, making it ideal for target shooting, competition, and ethical hunting applications. The threaded barrel allows for suppressor mounting, though you'll need proper NFA paperwork for that accessory.How does the Vandal Prime compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Vandal Prime significantly outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in both precision and feature set. Where the Stevens 334 typically shoots 1.5-2 MOA groups with factory ammo, the Vandal Prime consistently delivers sub-MOA (0.75-0.9 MOA) performance with match-grade ammunition. The Vandal Prime's carbon fiber stock and premium barrel contribute to its 1.2-pound weight advantage over the all-steel Stevens platform.What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.4 pounds unloaded and measures 42.5 inches in overall length with the 22-inch barrel. The carbon fiber stock features a 13.75-inch length of pull and 1.5-inch cheek riser height, accommodating most adult shooters comfortably. The barrel's 1:8 twist rate optimally stabilizes bullets from 120 to 147 grains for maximum accuracy.Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for beginners or budget-conscious shooters who might be better served by the more affordable Stevens 334 in .243 Win. The $2,999 price point and precision-focused design make it overkill for casual plinking or short-range hunting. Additionally, the threaded barrel requires ATF paperwork for suppressor use, adding complexity for those not familiar with NFA regulations.What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle with Iota Sim Brake installed, one 5-round AICS pattern magazine, and basic safety documentation. The package does not include optics, rings, or cleaning equipment—plan for an additional $800-$2,000 for quality glass and mounting hardware. The receiver comes pre-drilled and tapped with #8-40 screws for standard scope bases.Is the Vandal Prime worth it at $2,999?
Yes, for serious long-range shooters who demand sub-MOA accuracy and premium components. The TriggerTech trigger alone represents a $250 upgrade over factory triggers, while the carbon fiber stock and spiral-fluted barrel add significant value. Compared to custom-built rifles with similar specifications costing $4,000+, the Vandal Prime delivers 90% of the performance at 75% of the price.Key attributes
| upc | 850044680498 |
| manufacturer | Horizon Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | HRF-VNP-65CM-22R |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with AICS pattern magazines?
- Yes, the Vandal Prime uses standard AICS pattern magazines. The rifle ships with one 5-round magazine, and most aftermarket options from companies like Accuracy International or Magpul will function properly. Magazine compatibility is one area where this platform excels over proprietary systems.
- Does it work with standard scope bases?
- The receiver uses standard #8-40 mounting screws with 0.885-inch spacing, compatible with most Picatinny or Weaver bases. I recommend using quality mounting systems from Warne or Seekins Precision to maintain zero under recoil. Proper torque specification is 18-22 inch-pounds for scope base screws.
- Can I thread a suppressor directly to the barrel?
- The barrel features 5/8x24 threads, which is standard for 6.5mm Creedmoor suppressors. However, you must have an approved ATF Form 4 before taking possession of any suppressor. The Iota Sim Brake must be removed first, which requires a 1-inch wrench and proper vise mounting to avoid damaging the barrel.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to licensed FFL dealers takes 3-5 business days once paperwork is verified. All firearms shipments require overnight air service per ATF regulations, so processing times may add 1-2 business days for background checks and compliance verification. International shipments involve additional ITAR restrictions and typically take 4-6 weeks.
Sources & methodology.
Editorial review and rating by
Declan Vance
based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications.
Pricing verified at time of publication.
Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$2999.00