First Impressions of Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight promises a lot in a compact package. From the reputable Athlon Optics, this red dot aims to deliver reliability and performance for pistol shooters, especially those using Glock MOS platforms. It boasts features like a motion sensor, long battery life, and a low profile for co-witnessing, making it an interesting option in a crowded market.
I was looking for a red dot sight that wouldn’t break the bank but would still offer dependable performance on my Glock 19 MOS. I wanted something that was rugged enough to handle daily carry and reliable enough for competition. I hoped the Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M would fit the bill.
Unboxing the Midas TSR1-M, I immediately noticed its compact size and lightweight design. The build quality seemed solid, with a clean finish and no apparent manufacturing flaws. The sight felt substantial despite its small dimensions.
Compared to the Holosun 507k and the Trijicon RMRcc, the Athlon stood out for its price point and promised features. The Holosun had more features but was pricier, while the Trijicon, known for its durability, was significantly more expensive. I chose the Athlon hoping for a balance between performance and affordability.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight appeared to be a well-made, feature-rich option at a competitive price. I was excited to mount it and see how it performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M at my local indoor shooting range. I mounted it on my Glock 19 MOS and zeroed it at 15 yards. The initial zeroing process was straightforward, and the adjustments were positive and consistent.
The conditions were controlled, but I focused on rapid target acquisition and transitioning between targets. The 3 MOA dot was crisp and clear, and the motion sensor activated quickly. I noticed no parallax issues during my initial testing.
The only minor issue I encountered was finding the right brightness setting for the indoor lighting. The dot was either too dim or slightly too bright at first, but I quickly found a comfortable setting. Overall, my first use was positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M during weekly range sessions, it has held up remarkably well. The finish has shown no signs of wear despite regular handling and cleaning. I trust it for daily carry.
I’ve put several hundred rounds downrange with the sight mounted, and it has maintained its zero consistently. The battery life has been impressive, and the motion sensor has worked flawlessly every time. The sight has proven to be durable and reliable.
Compared to a Vortex Venom I used previously, the Athlon feels more robust and offers better battery life. The Midas TSR1-M has exceeded my expectations for a red dot in its price range. It has become a trusted addition to my EDC setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight
Specifications
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight features a 1x magnification and an objective lens diameter of 17-24mm. The objective window size is 17mm. These specifications provide a clear and wide field of view for quick target acquisition.
The Midas TSR1-M utilizes a 3 MOA dot reticle with 1 MOA adjustment click values. The enclosed emitter type ensures the dot remains visible in various lighting conditions. These features allow for precise adjustments and accurate aiming.
It runs on a CR2032 Lithium Metal battery, offering a claimed 50,000 hours of battery life. The sight is also weather resistant, waterproof, and shockproof, providing reliable performance in harsh environments. These elements are critical for ensuring long-lasting functionality.
The sight weighs only 1.1 oz and has a width of 1.2 inches. Its compact and lightweight design minimizes added bulk on a pistol slide. This facilitates comfortable carry and handling.
Performance & Functionality
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M performs its primary job exceptionally well. The red dot is crisp, clear, and easily adjustable, providing excellent accuracy. It is reliable in various shooting scenarios.
The sight’s strengths lie in its long battery life, motion sensor activation, and durable construction. A weakness is the limited number of brightness settings; more granular control would be beneficial. It largely meets expectations.
It exceeds expectations for the price. The sight’s reliability and performance make it an excellent value.
Design & Ergonomics
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M boasts solid build quality. The materials used appear durable, and the sight feels well-constructed. Its lightweight design adds minimal weight to the pistol.
The sight is incredibly user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve, and mounting is straightforward. The controls are intuitive and easy to access.
Durability & Maintenance
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M appears built to last. The shockproof and waterproof design inspires confidence.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s needed to keep the sight in good working order. It looks built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight includes mounting screws and a small tool for adjustments. It is designed to co-witness with suppressor height iron sights on Glock MOS slides.
The sight is compatible with any MOS-cut pistol slide and aftermarket iron sights. Beyond that, customization options are limited. Aftermarket support is still growing, but the sight is functional as is.
Pros and Cons of Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight
Pros
- Exceptional Battery Life: With a claimed 50,000 hours, you won’t be changing batteries often.
- Motion Sensor Activation: Always ready when you need it, saving battery life when you don’t.
- Durable Construction: Waterproof, shockproof, and built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Compact and Lightweight: Adds minimal bulk to your pistol.
- Affordable Price: Excellent performance at a competitive price point.
Cons
- Limited Brightness Settings: More granular control over dot intensity would be beneficial.
- Limited Aftermarket Support: Customization options are currently limited.
Who Should Buy Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight?
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight is perfect for:
- Concealed carriers looking for a reliable and compact red dot.
- Glock MOS owners seeking a co-witnessing solution with suppressor height sights.
- Budget-conscious shooters who want excellent performance without breaking the bank.
This is a pass for:
- Shooters requiring advanced features like multiple reticle options or integrated laser sights.
- Individuals needing a red dot for long-range shooting applications.
Consider:
- Suppressor height sights are a must for co-witnessing.
- A quality holster designed for red dot equipped pistols.
Conclusion on Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight
The Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight offers an impressive blend of performance, durability, and affordability. Its long battery life, motion sensor, and rugged construction make it a reliable choice for everyday carry and range use.
At $195.49, the price is definitely justified. You get a lot of value for your money.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable red dot sight for their pistol. It’s a great option.
Upgrade your pistol today with the Athlon Optics Midas TSR1-M 24x17mm Red Dot Sight and experience improved accuracy and faster target acquisition! You won’t regret it.