Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope Review

The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope Made a Bold First Impression

In the crowded world of rifle optics, finding the right scope can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope aims to stand out by offering a feature-rich solution at a competitive price point. With its HD Glass, fully multi-coated lenses, and first focal plane (FFP) MOA reticle, it promised to be more than just another option; it aimed to be the solution.

My search for a new scope began with a growing frustration with my current optic. I needed something that could handle the demands of both long-range target shooting and the occasional varmint hunt on my family’s ranch. Specifically, I wanted a scope with a first focal plane reticle and reliable tracking, but I didn’t want to break the bank.

Unboxing the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope was a promising start. The scope felt substantial and well-made, hinting at the durable construction I’d hoped for. The matte black finish looked clean and professional, and the turrets clicked with a reassuringly positive feel.

I considered several other scopes in this price range, including the Vortex Diamondback Tactical and the Primary Arms GLx series. Ultimately, I chose the Athlon because it seemed to offer a slightly better combination of features, including the HD glass and hard zero stop. My first impression was definitely positive. I was eager to get it mounted and see how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope was at my local shooting range. I mounted it on my trusty .308 bolt-action rifle and began the zeroing process at 100 yards. The glass clarity was immediately noticeable, even under the harsh midday sun.

Conditions were relatively mild, with a slight breeze. Adjusting the turrets felt precise and consistent, and the hard zero stop was a welcome feature. It made returning to my zero after dialing for longer distances incredibly easy. After a few adjustments, I quickly had a tight group centered on the bullseye. The ease of use was impressive; even someone less experienced would likely find the scope intuitive to adjust.

After my first range session, I did notice that the eye box was a little tight at higher magnifications. This meant that my head position needed to be fairly consistent to maintain a clear image.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope has held up admirably. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from sunny days at the range to chilly mornings hunting coyotes in the surrounding hills. The finish shows no signs of wear, and the turrets still feel as positive as they did on day one.

I’ve also taken it out in light rain, and the lenses have remained clear and free of fog. Maintaining the scope has been simple; I just wipe it down with a microfiber cloth after each use. Compared to other scopes I’ve owned, the Athlon Midas TAC HD has outperformed many in terms of clarity and tracking repeatability.

The only real issue I’ve encountered is the tight eye box at higher magnifications. While it hasn’t been a deal-breaker, it is something to be aware of, especially for those who wear glasses or prefer a more forgiving eye relief.

Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope

Specifications

• Magnification: 6-24x. This provides a versatile range for both close-quarters and long-range engagements.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm. The larger objective lens gathers plenty of light, resulting in a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions.
• Reticle: MOA, First Focal Plane (FFP). The FFP reticle means the reticle subtensions remain accurate at all magnifications, which is crucial for precise ranging and holdovers.
• Tube Diameter: 30mm. This allows for a wider range of internal adjustments and provides a robust platform for mounting.
• Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA. These fine adjustments allow for precise zeroing and accurate tracking when dialing for distance.
• Total Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA. Plenty of travel for longer shots.
• Total Windage Adjustment: 60 MOA. Ample windage adjustment for challenging conditions.
• Parallax Adjustment: 10 yards to Infinity. The ability to adjust parallax eliminates parallax error and ensures a sharp image at any distance.
• Eye Relief: 3.6 inches. This is adequate, but a bit more would be welcome at higher magnifications.
• Field of View @ 100 yards: 16.7 – 4.5 feet. The field of view is respectable, but not class-leading.
• Length: 14.1 inches. A relatively compact size for a scope with these features.
• Weight: 24.7 ounces. On the heavier side, but not excessively so.
• HD Glass: Provides exceptional clarity and resolution.
• Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: Maximize light transmission and reduce glare.
• Hard Zero Stop: Allows for a quick and easy return to zero.
• Capped Windage Turret: Prevents accidental windage adjustments.
• Aircraft Grade Aluminum Tube: Ensures durability and reliability.

These specifications translate to a scope that’s well-suited for a variety of applications, from target shooting to hunting. The FFP reticle and precise adjustments make it easy to dial for distance and compensate for wind, while the HD glass ensures a clear and bright image in a wide range of lighting conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope performs admirably for its price point. Its accuracy and reliability make it a great tool. Tracking is consistent, and the adjustments are repeatable.

The scope’s strengths lie in its clarity, precision, and ease of use. However, the somewhat tight eye box and capped windage turret (while preventing accidental adjustments, it’s slower to adjust) are areas that could be improved. Overall, it meets and, in some areas, exceeds expectations for a scope in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with a durable aluminum tube and well-machined turrets. The weight is manageable, and the scope feels balanced on most rifles. The capped windage turret, while functional, is a bit less convenient than an exposed, locking turret for quick adjustments in the field.

The scope is reasonably user-friendly, although the tight eye box at higher magnifications may require some getting used to. The parallax adjustment is smooth and easy to operate, allowing for precise focusing at various distances.

Durability & Maintenance

The Athlon Midas TAC HD appears to be built to last. After months of regular use, there are no signs of wear or damage. The matte black finish is resistant to scratches and fingerprints.

Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe the lenses with a microfiber cloth to remove dust and smudges. The scope is also waterproof, providing added peace of mind in inclement weather.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope comes with basic lens covers. It readily accepts standard 30mm scope rings, allowing for a wide range of mounting options. Aftermarket accessories such as bubble levels and throw levers can easily be added to enhance functionality.

The scope is compatible with most rifles that accept standard scope mounts. There are no proprietary accessories required, making it easy to customize to individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope