Horizon Vandal Dark II - 22 Creedmoor (Hands-On)

Published on July 20, 2025
Duration: 15:57

This video provides a hands-on review of the Horizon Firearms Vandal Dark 2 rifle chambered in 22 Creedmoor. The presenter, Gavin Gear from Ultimate Reloader, details the rifle's features, including its Stiller action, Benchmark barrel, and carbon stock. He discusses its suitability for varmint and small game hunting, shares his experience with various ammunition types and handloads, and demonstrates its performance in field conditions, including hunting squirrels and rock chucks. The review highlights the rifle's compact nature, accuracy potential, and overall quality.

Quick Summary

The Horizon Firearms Vandal Dark 2, chambered in 22 Creedmoor, is a compact and accurate rifle ideal for varmint and small game hunting. It features a Stiller action, an 18-inch Benchmark barrel with a 1:8 twist, and a lightweight carbon stock, weighing 7 lbs 5 oz. Handloads achieved half-inch groups with velocities around 3000 fps.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to 22 Creedmoor
  2. 00:33Horizon Firearms & 22 Creedmoor Origin
  3. 00:45Introducing the Vandal Dark 2
  4. 01:18Varmint Problem at Ultimate Reloader Ranch
  5. 01:43Rifle Unboxing and Initial Look
  6. 02:19Video Plan: Scope, Ammo, Shooting
  7. 03:19Scope and Accessory Setup
  8. 04:06Sight-In Procedure
  9. 04:43Factory Ammo Testing (Hornady)
  10. 05:11Handload Development (Sierra, H4350, Ramshot Hunter)
  11. 06:23Handload Performance Analysis
  12. 06:46Rifle Configuration: Brake vs Suppressor
  13. 07:01Velocity Data (18" Barrel)
  14. 07:50Field Hunting: Squirrels and Rock Chucks
  15. 08:55Tripod Shooting Considerations
  16. 09:56Hunting Scenario: Deer Target Simulation
  17. 10:30Detailed Features and Specs
  18. 10:36Horizon Stiller Action Details
  19. 11:24Barrel Specs: 18" 1:8 Twist
  20. 11:40Twist Rate and Bullet Stability Trade-offs
  21. 12:01Iota Sim Brake and Jam Nut
  22. 12:23AICS Bottom Metal and DBM Setup
  23. 12:50TriggerTech Adjustable Trigger
  24. 13:09Textured Carbon IOTA Stock
  25. 13:21Total Weight and Compactness
  26. 13:50Summary and Final Thoughts
  27. 14:42Recommendation for Varmint Hunting
  28. 14:55Viewer Engagement and Comments
  29. 15:12Outro and Social Media

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Horizon Firearms Vandal Dark 2 chambered in?

The Horizon Firearms Vandal Dark 2 rifle reviewed in this video is chambered in the 22 Creedmoor cartridge. This caliber is noted for its effectiveness in varmint and small game hunting.

What are the key features of the Horizon Vandal Dark 2 rifle?

Key features include a Stiller action, an 18-inch Benchmark 8-flute barrel with a 1:8 twist, an Iota Sim brake, AICS detachable bottom metal, a TriggerTech adjustable trigger, and a textured carbon IOTA ecostock. It weighs 7 lbs 5 oz.

What kind of performance can be expected from the 22 Creedmoor in the Vandal Dark 2?

With handloads using Ramshot Hunter and 77-grain bullets, velocities between 2900-3000 fps were achieved from the 18-inch barrel, with average groups around half an inch. Factory ammo performance varied.

What applications is the Horizon Vandal Dark 2 suitable for?

The Vandal Dark 2 is highly suitable for varmint hunting, including squirrels, prairie dogs, and coyotes. Its compact size and accuracy also make it a good option for small game hunting and potentially deer hunting at moderate ranges.

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