7 Best Athlon Scopes

Outdoor Moran is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More

Today we look at the best Athlon scope recommendations.

When it comes to finding the best scope for your hunting and shooting needs, there are many options and brands available on the market. Many brands in the scope market provide varying scopes in terms of style, functionality, price, and performance however, the Athlon Optics brand has gained a reputation for producing high-quality scopes that offer excellent performance at a reasonable price point.

Reliability, versatility, affordability, and unmatched performance are all guaranteed by Athlon

With a wide range of models designed for various applications, Athlon Optics provides shooters with a reliable and versatile solution for their shooting needs.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best Athlon scope options available and explore their features and benefits to help you make an informed purchasing decision.

If you are in a hurry,

Here is a summary of the best Athlon scopes

1) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24x50mm FFP Riflescope

best Athlon scope recommendations

 

 

 

  • Length: 14.1 in
  • Weight: 30.3 oz
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.3 in

 

 

2) Athlon Optics Ares ETR UHD 4.5-30×56 FFP Riflescope

Athlon Optics Ares ETR UHD 4.5-30x56 FFP Riflescope

 

  • Length: 15.3 in
  • Weight: 36.5 oz
  • Tube Diameter: 34 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.9 in

 

 

3) Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Riflescope

 

  • Length: 12.56 in
  • Weight: 18.1 oz
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.11 – 3.15 in

 

 

4) Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14x44mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14x44mm Riflescope

 

  • Length: 113.1 in
  • Weight: 23.6 oz
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.15 – 3.23 in

 

 

5) Athlon Optics Midas BTR Gen2 HD 4.5-27×50 Riflescope

Athlon Optics Midas BTR Gen2 HD 4.5-27x50 Riflescope

 

  • Length: 13.8 in
  • Weight: 26 oz
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.9 in

 

 

6) Athlon Optics Talos 3-12x40mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Talos 3-12x40mm Riflescope

 

  • Length: 12 in
  • Weight: 16.2 oz
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.82 in

 

 

7) Athlon Optics Neos 3-9x40mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Neos 3-9x40mm Riflescope

 

  • Length: 12.4 in
  • Weight: 17 oz
  • Tube Diameter: 1 in
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief: 2.99 – 3.07 in

 

 

 

 

About Athlon Optics

Athlon is a sports optics manufacturer based in the United States that takes pride in its products. The company is dedicated to developing and providing high-quality optics products and outdoor accessories to its customers at a competitive price through its distribution and retail channels.

Athlon boasts strong engineering capabilities, as well as strategic partnerships with quality manufacturers and a streamlined, fully integrated supply chain. These advantages enable the company to offer the latest cutting-edge technologies and eliminate the unnecessary layers of traditional supply chains, resulting in significant cost savings that are passed on to the consumer.

Since its inception, Athlon’s objective has been to offer these savings to outdoor enthusiasts.

 

Best Athlon Scopes

1) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24x50mm FFP Riflescope

best Athlon scope recommendations

 

 

 

Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope tops our list of the best Athlon scopes. This rifle scope is perfect for diverse tactical applications, hunting, and competition shooting.

The scope guarantees incredible visual quality. Its fully multi-coated lenses produce brighter, sharper, and more detailed image views from sunrise to sunset. Also, it has a sizable 50mm objective lens, which improves resolution in dim light.

The manufacturer goes the extra mile to ensure optimum durability. The aircraft-grade aluminum 6061-T6 used to construct the scope offers excellent mechanical integrity and strength. The main tube is entirely fog proof and sealed to keep out moisture so that it may be used in snowy and rainy conditions.

The scope is fitted with a precision zero stop to maintain accuracy when taking long-range shots. The reticle is etched onto the glass to be more durable and resistant to recoil. Further, it is illuminated to improve visibility in dimly lit settings.

Features

  • First focal plane reticle
  • Precision-zero stop system
  • 30mm tube
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
  • Fully multi-coated optics

Pros

  • Sturdy build
  • Easy to use
  • Reasonable price
  • Reticle illumination

Cons

  • None

 

2) Athlon Optics Ares ETR UHD 4.5-30×56 FFP Riflescope

Athlon Optics Ares ETR UHD 4.5-30x56 FFP Riflescope

 

 

If you are a serious shooter looking for the best Athlon scope, the Ares ETR UHD 4.5-30×56 is the scope for you. It boasts a huge 56mm objective lens to deliver the sharpest image possible and uses true Multi-Coated Lenses and Extra Low Dispersion Glass.

Argon gas is used to fill the tube and provides much better water resistance and, most importantly, the highest level of thermal stability. As a result, your scope won’t fog up when you take your rifle out of your warm pickup truck on a chilly morning.

There is no guessing how many clicks you put on your elevation or windage turrets thanks to the Precision Erector System, which produces very sharp, loud, tactile clicks that you can easily hear and feel.

The windage turret also has a pull-up/push-down locking turret cap, which is a standout feature. Additionally, the dedicated Zero Stop in the elevation turret is incredibly straightforward to set up.

Features

  • Side focus
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
  • Precision Erector System
  • Multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission
  • 34mm main tube
  • Glass etched reticle
  • Zero Stop feature
  • Six brightness settings

Pros

  • Superior glass quality
  • Illuminated reticle
  • Robust construction

Cons

  • A bit heavy (36.5 oz)

 

3) Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Riflescope

 

 

Made with budget-conscious shooters in mind, the Athlon Neos 4-12×40 is hinged with impressive features that make it outshine its competitors.

It has fully multi-coated optics that ensure optimal light transmission for bright and clear images. The BDC 500 reticle is illuminated for great visibility in low-light conditions.

Construction-wise, a lifetime of use and exceptional strength and durability are guaranteed by aircraft-grade aluminum build, which can withstand the toughest terrain.

It is also waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof for reliable performance, regardless of environmental conditions. The scope is rigid and robust thanks to a heat-treated one-piece tube that perfectly keeps moisture out and your scope fog-proof.

Features

  • Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
  • BDC 500 reticle
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • Nitrogen purged for fog proof and waterproof performance
  • Heat-treated one-piece tube
  • to 3.3 inches of eye relief

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Long-lasting construction
  • Seamless adjustments
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • None

 

4) Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14x44mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14x44mm Riflescope

 

 

The Talos BTR 4-14×44 is another great scope from Athlon. It has some impeccable features and is made of quality materials, so you shouldn’t shy away from it.

Like other top-notch scopes, the scope has an aircraft-grade aluminum construction that promises many years of long-lasting use. The body is also shockproof, meaning it can ensure heavy recoils. It is also purged with nitrogen for waterproof and fog proof capability.

One of the selling points of this scope is its first focal plane reticle. This implies that your reticle will also do the same as you zoom the scope to get a closer look at your target.

This scope has very robust turret knobs. The cap protects the turrets from external elements. The 44mm objective lens on the Talos BTR is fully multi-coated. This guarantees you won’t experience any glare or low light transmission problems.

Features

  • First focal plane reticle
  • Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • Solid turret knobs that are caped
  • Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum

Pros

  • Decent lens quality
  • Good construction
  • Easy on your wallet
  • It comes with a lifetime warranty

Cons

  • The field of view is fairly on the lower side

 

5) Athlon Optics Midas BTR Gen2 HD 4.5-27×50 Riflescope

Athlon Optics Midas BTR Gen2 HD 4.5-27x50 Riflescope

 

 

The 4.5-27x magnification in the Athlon Midas BTR Gen2 HD eliminates the need for many scopes as it can cover diverse ranges. An aerospace aluminum alloy is hammer-forged to increase strength into the incredibly robust one-piece tube.

Light transmission is not an issue. You will always have the brightest, clearest long-distance image because of its advanced multi-coating. The XPL lens coating shields the lenses against smudges, oil, dirt, and moisture. When it matters most, the ultra-fast side parallax focus ensures that you get the sharpest image possible.

The precision zero-stop system allows you to return to zero seamlessly.

Features

  • Side parallax focus
  • One-piece tube construction
  • Advanced fully multi-coated lenses
  • XPL coating keeps away dirt, oil, and scratches
  • Precision zero-stop system
  • Glass etched reticle

Pros

  • Illuminated reticle for low light conditions
  • Durable construction
  • Clearly marked subtensions
  • Good quality glass

Cons

  • Stiff controls

6) Athlon Optics Talos 3-12x40mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Talos 3-12x40mm Riflescope

 

 

Athlon Talos 3-12×40 SFP lets you see exactly where your shots are going thanks to the 3–12 magnification range and the big 40mm objective lens. It delivers superb accuracy and clarity at a cost that won’t break the bank.

Fully multicoated lenses used in this scope have superior light transmission while also reducing annoying reflections, resulting in sharp and clear views.

The one-inch aircraft-grade aluminum, one-piece, heat-treated tube used in the construction of the scope provides you with confidence as it is robust and will hold up in every condition. It won’t fail you in the middle of a hunt because it is nitrogen-purged, making it waterproof and fog proof. This is in addition to being shockproof.

The Mildot reticle in the scope makes range estimation easy and allows you to track moving targets easily.

Features

  • 3-12x magnification
  • 40mm objective lens
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
  • Capped turrets
  • Mildot reticle
  • Matte finish

Pros

  • Durable housing
  • Generous eye relief
  • Optimal light transmission
  • Versatile

Cons

  • None

 

7) Athlon Optics Neos 3-9x40mm Riflescope

Athlon Optics Neos 3-9x40mm Riflescope

 

 

You don’t have to break the bank to have the Athlon Neos 3-9×40 SFP Riflescope. The scope will take your hunting and shooting to the next level with its phenomenal features. The scope’s magnification ranges from 3 to 9x. The 3x magnification can be used for close-range target hunting, while the 9x is perfect for long-range shooting.

Bright, crisp, and true-to-color images across the entire light spectrum are made possible by the fully multi-coated lenses’ improved light transmission. For better long-range accuracy, the scope also incorporates side parallax focus technology.

Since scopes are mostly used outdoors, when conditions are unfavorable, the scope is designed to handle whatever it comes across like a pro. It is sealed to keep away dirt, water, and dust. The one-inch tube is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. Besides, it is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.

Because the reticle is located in the second focal plane, its appearance is unaffected by changes in magnification. It is illuminated to offer precise shot placement when hunting in poor light and glass-etched for extra durability.

Features

  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • Made of high-grade aluminum
  • Side focus
  • Glass-etched reticle
  • Variable 3-9x magnification
  • One-inch tube

Pros

  • Reticle illumination
  • Lightweight, thus easily portable
  • Ideal for hunting and recreational target shooting
  • Durable

Cons

  • Shorter eye relief

 

Factors to consider when selecting the best Athlon scopes

  1. Magnification

Determining the range at which you will mostly shoot is the first thing you need to do. Then decide on a magnification range because magnification will significantly affect how accurately you can shoot.

  1. Versatility

The ideal Athlon scope needs to be versatile in both design and functionality.

It should be flexible to be used in police enforcement operations, hunting, and even target shooting.

  1. Glass quality

Using a riflescope improves your shooting skills. Glass of superior quality must be used to qualify a model as the best Athlon scope. This affects how clearly the riflescope’s images are captured.

The quality of the images the scope produces also benefits depends on lens coatings. Optics with a full multi-coating enhance light transmission, giving shooters the clearest views possible. Sharp images are produced by the coating’s glare reduction and regulation of the amount of light in the scope.

  1. Construction

Single-piece scopes are simple to mount and operate. Quality riflescopes with tubes made of aluminum or another robust material are durable and will last many years.

It would help if you also kept an eye out for features like waterproofing and fog-proofing. When hunting, the weather may vary, but a scope with the aforementioned characteristics won’t budge. The scope also needs to be shockproof for recoil and impact resistance.

  1. Price

Finally, if you have a budget, stick to it. Every scope that Athlon sells, from budget models to those with expensive optics, is of A-grade quality. There is something for everyone, so you don’t have to fret.

 

Athlon Scopes vs Vortex

Athlon and Vortex are both popular brands in the hunting and shooting optics industry, and both offer high-quality scopes that are suitable for a variety of shooting applications. Here are some key differences between the two:

Price

Athlon scopes tend to be less expensive than Vortex scopes, although both brands have a range of prices depending on the specific model and features.

Warranty

Vortex has one of the best warranties in the industry, offering a lifetime, unconditional warranty that covers anything that may happen to your scope, even if it’s your fault. Athlon’s warranty is also very good, but it’s not quite as comprehensive as Vortex’s.

Features

Both Athlon and Vortex scopes offer a range of features, including different reticles, magnification options, and lens coatings. However, some shooters prefer the specific features offered by one brand over the other.

Quality

Both brands are known for producing high-quality optics, but some shooters feel that Vortex scopes are slightly better in terms of image quality and durability.

Overall, both Athlon and Vortex are incredible choices for hunters and shooters looking for high-quality scopes. It’s a matter of personal preference and budget when it comes to choosing between the two.

Related: 6 Best Vortex Scopes for Hunting

Athlon Scope Problems

Like any product, Athlon scopes may encounter some problems. Here are some potential issues that users have reported with Athlon scopes:

  1. Quality control issues: Some users have reported that their Athlon scopes arrived with defects or quality control issues. These can range from cosmetic issues to more serious problems with the scope’s performance.
  2. Focusing problems: A few users have reported difficulty getting their Athlon scopes to focus properly. This can make it challenging to get a clear and accurate sight picture.
  3. Reticle issues: Some users have reported that the reticle in their Athlon scope became misaligned or moved unexpectedly, making it difficult to aim accurately.
  4. Mounting problems: A few users have reported difficulty mounting their Athlon scopes securely to their rifles. This can lead to accuracy problems and frustration when trying to zero the scope.

It’s worth noting that these problems are not common and most users are very satisfied with their Athlon scopes. However, if you do encounter any issues with your scope, Athlon has a good warranty program and will work with you to resolve any problems.

 

Where are Athlon Scopes Made?

Athlon Optics is a US-based company that designs and engineers its scopes in the United States. However, like many other scope manufacturers, Athlon produces its scopes in various locations around the world to keep costs down and maintain competitive pricing.

The manufacturing locations of Athlon scopes can vary depending on the specific product line and model. Some Athlon scopes are made in China, while others are made in Japan or South Korea.

The location of production is usually listed on the product page or packaging. Regardless of where they are made, Athlon scopes undergo rigorous quality control inspections to ensure they meet the company’s high standards for performance and durability.

FAQs

What is the warranty on Athlon scopes?

Athlon Optics has a lifetime warranty on all of its scopes, the warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship.

Are Athlon scopes worth it?

Athlon is undoubtedly one of the most reputable optics brands. They manufacture a huge selection of affordable, high-quality scopes.

What is the difference between FFP and SFP?

An SFP reticle maintains its size irrespective of magnification, differentiating it from its SFP cousin. The size of the reticle changes when using an FFP reticle as the magnification changes.

What is the best Athlon scope for the money?

The Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 is a great value for the price. It offers a versatile magnification range, high-quality glass, and durable construction. It’s also backed by a solid warranty and excellent customer service from Athlon.

Conclusion

Choosing a reliable scope is just as crucial as selecting your weapon to increase your accuracy and shooting prowess. If you want to invest in an Athlon scope, you will not regret it. The guide above is meant to help you find a model that works best for you and your needs.