Guys. Need your advice. I am in Australia and I have ordered a Horizon Vandal X 22 Creedmoor and the local distributor has asked if I want an 18 inch barrel or 22 inch. I didn’t realise they did 22 inch however apparently the standard barrel length coming to Australia is 22 inch. I am told I can get 18 inches if I want. Any advice on what I should go with.
I assume hunting… do you ever hunt through heavy brush? Or do you plan to suppress? If yes to either, then personally I would choose 18". Also, if you plan to keep the Vandal stock, and not go aftermarket foldable, then 18 is much easier to move around altogether, but you loose around 200 ft/sec from the 22". If you plan to take 400+ yard shots, or if you’re getting a foldable stock, then 22".
That’s how I look at it at least.
Unfortunately suppressors and foldable stocks are illegal in Australia so they are not an option for us down here. Based on your comments it sounds like 22” is the way to go.
Then, its just a matter of what energy you need for what you’re hunting at the max distance you can ethically hunt.
Gemini says that’s 3100 FT/sec out of 18" barrel shooting 80gr eldm/x. Energy falls to 1100 at 300 feet.
From a 22" barrel you get 32 Ft/sec and energy is 1050 at 400 feet.
I have the 18” and I love it. Still 3025fps with Precision Hunter ammo.
Thanks Jim. I am buying the rifle as a result of seeing its performance on Backfire. You have a big following in Australia. Love your content.