The Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle Made a Bold First Impression
The Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle from Athlon Optics promises to be a game-changer for long-range spotters. This isn’t just another eyepiece; it’s a precision instrument designed for rapid target acquisition and accurate range estimation. The integrated TSSR2 SFP MIL reticle speaks to a very specific need in the long-range shooting community: faster, more confident calls.
My journey to this particular piece of glass started with frustrating range days. I was consistently helping fellow shooters dial in their long-range game, and my old spotting scope setup just wasn’t cutting it for providing quick corrections. Other options, even from trusted brands like Leupold and Vortex, either lacked a useful ranging reticle or felt clunky in the field.
Unboxing the Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle revealed a well-protected optic. The finish was clean, the threading smooth, and the reticle was crisp even in less-than-ideal lighting. My initial feeling was a cautious optimism. This felt like a serious piece of kit, but the proof would be in the performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle was at a PRS-style club match. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and overcast. I paired it with my Ares 15-45×65 UHD Straight Spotting Scope, and immediately appreciated the improvement in speed for calling shots.
The reticle made holding for follow-up shots drastically faster. I found myself instinctively using the MIL measurements to communicate adjustments, cutting down on wasted time and keeping my shooter engaged. There was a bit of a learning curve with the reticle, but it was intuitive enough to pick up quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use at the range and even on a backcountry elk hunt (for glassing potential bedding areas), the Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle has become an invaluable tool. It’s stood up to bumps and scrapes during transport with only minor cosmetic wear. Cleaning the lens is straightforward, and the threads remain smooth after repeated swaps.
Compared to my old 20x eyepiece, the Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle offers a clearer image and a much more useful feature set. I’ve grown to rely on the ranging capabilities for quick estimations, even when I have my rangefinder available.
Breaking Down the Features of Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle
Specifications
- Magnification: Fixed 22x. This provides a good balance between magnification and field of view.
- Reticle: TSSR2 SFP MIL. The MIL reticle allows for accurate range estimation and holdover corrections.
- Compatibility: Ares 15-45×65 UHD Straight and Angled Spotting Scopes. This limited compatibility might be a deal-breaker for some.
These specifications translate into a dedicated long-range spotting tool. The fixed 22x magnification ensures a stable image. The MIL reticle turns the spotting scope into an active ranging tool.
Performance & Functionality
The Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle excels at its primary purpose: rapid and accurate spotting. The MIL reticle is easy to read and use for ranging targets and calling corrections. The image quality is sharp and clear, even in low-light conditions.
The biggest strength is the speed it adds to the spotting process. The fixed magnification is a slight limitation. Some might prefer a zoom eyepiece for more versatility.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle is built with a robust feel. The materials are high-quality, and the eyepiece fits snugly into the compatible spotting scopes. The weight is manageable, and the eye relief is comfortable for extended use.
The design is functional and intuitive. The reticle is well-placed and doesn’t obstruct the view. There is a slight learning curve to fully utilize the MIL reticle.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle seems built to last. The finish is resistant to scratches, and the lens is easy to clean with a microfiber cloth. With proper care, this eyepiece should provide years of reliable service.
The simple design minimizes potential failure points. Cleaning the lens is the primary maintenance requirement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle does not offer any customization options. It is designed to be a specific tool for a specific purpose. The compatibility is limited to Athlon’s Ares 15-45×65 UHD spotting scopes.
This lack of customization might be a drawback for some. The focus is on simplicity and performance within its intended use case.
Pros and Cons of Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle
Pros
- Integrated MIL reticle for rapid ranging and holdover calls.
- Sharp, clear image quality even in less-than-ideal lighting.
- Durable construction that can withstand field use.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Significantly speeds up the spotting process for long-range shooting.
Cons
- Limited compatibility with only Ares 15-45×65 UHD spotting scopes.
- Fixed 22x magnification may not be ideal for all situations.
- Might not be the best choice if you only occasionally need a ranging reticle.
Who Should Buy Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle?
Perfect for: Competitive PRS shooters, long-range instructors, and anyone who regularly spots for others at long distances. Also beneficial for hunters needing to range game quickly in the field.
Who should skip this product? Those who own spotting scopes from other brands, those who prefer a zoom eyepiece for versatility, and those who rarely need a ranging reticle.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good quality spotting scope tripod is essential for stable viewing. A lens cleaning kit will help maintain the image quality.
Conclusion on Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle
The Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle is a dedicated tool for long-range spotters who prioritize speed and accuracy. The price of $178.99 is justified by the performance and feature set. It transforms a standard spotting scope into a valuable ranging instrument.
I would highly recommend this eyepiece to anyone looking to improve their spotting game. If you value speed, precision, and ease of use, the Ares G2 UHD 22x eye piece with mil reticle is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your spotting scope today and start making those confident calls!