Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder Review

First Thoughts on the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder

For years, I’ve relied on instinct and experience to judge distances in the field. This approach served me well enough in my early years, but as my hunts grew longer and my shots grew more challenging, I knew I needed a reliable rangefinder. The Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder seemed like a worthy contender.

What drew me to the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder was its promise of accuracy and ease of use, all at a reasonable price. I needed a device that could quickly and accurately provide distances in diverse terrains and weather conditions, especially during hunting season in the rugged mountains of Montana. This product offered a lightweight build, clear optics, and a respectable 1-mile range.

Unboxing the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder, I immediately noticed its compact and ergonomic design. It felt sturdy in my hands, the rubberized exterior providing a secure grip. Compared to bulkier rangefinders I’d handled before, this one felt refreshingly streamlined.

I considered the Vortex Impact 850 and the Bushnell Scout DX 1000, both popular options in the same price range. Ultimately, I chose the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder because of Athlon’s reputation for quality optics and the intuitive button layout that seemed less cluttered than the competition. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – could this relatively affordable rangefinder truly deliver the performance I needed?

Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder was during a week-long elk hunting trip in the Bitterroot Mountains. I primarily used it to range potential shot distances across valleys, dense forests, and open meadows. The varying terrain provided an excellent challenge for its ranging capabilities.

The performance was surprisingly good, even in the early morning fog and occasional drizzle. The 6x magnification provided a clear view of the target, and the ranging was quick and consistent. I found it easy to operate even with gloved hands, which is crucial during cold-weather hunts. My only minor gripe was that the display could be a bit difficult to read in bright sunlight.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder has proven to be a reliable companion. It has accompanied me on multiple hunting trips, long-range shooting sessions, and even a few scouting expeditions. It has held up remarkably well.

The housing shows only minimal signs of wear, despite being bumped and jostled in my pack. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth is usually all it takes. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper rangefinders that quickly lost accuracy, the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder has consistently delivered accurate readings.

Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder

Specifications

The Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder boasts a range of features packed into its compact frame. It provides accurate distance readings up to 1 mile, which is more than sufficient for most hunting and shooting scenarios.

• Magnification: 6x, offering a clear view of distant targets. This magnification strikes a good balance between field of view and target clarity.
• Range: Up to 1 mile (1760 yards), suitable for various shooting and hunting disciplines. This range provides ample distance for ethical and accurate shots in most environments.
• Accuracy: +/- 1 yard, ensuring precise distance measurements. Accuracy is paramount for making informed decisions in the field, preventing missed shots or unethical engagements.
• Display: LCD, providing clear distance readings. The LCD is easy to read in most lighting conditions, although it can be challenging in direct sunlight.
• Modes: Angle, Scan, and Hunting modes, offering versatility in different situations. These modes provide tailored readings depending on the environment and user’s needs.
• Battery: CR2, offering long-lasting power. The common CR2 battery ensures availability and relatively long run times.
• Weight: 7.4 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to carry. The lightweight design prevents fatigue during long treks and hunts.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the rangefinder’s ability to perform its primary function: providing accurate distance measurements quickly and reliably. The 6x magnification, for example, allows for clear target acquisition, while the different modes optimize the rangefinder for specific scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder excels in delivering consistent and accurate readings. Its ranging is quick, usually providing a distance within a second or two.

The scan mode is particularly useful for ranging moving targets or scanning across a landscape for multiple distances. The angle compensation feature is accurate. This helps ensure precise shots when shooting uphill or downhill. The main weakness is the LCD screen in bright light, which can be hard to read. However, this is a common problem with many rangefinders. Ultimately, it meets and often exceeds my expectations for a rangefinder in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder is commendable. The materials feel durable and the rubberized exterior provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The rangefinder is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a pocket or pack. The button layout is intuitive, and the controls are easy to reach with one hand. There is no learning curve. The device can be mastered within minutes of first use.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder is built to last. The housing is impact-resistant and the lens is scratch-resistant.

Maintenance is minimal – simply wipe the lens with a microfiber cloth to remove dust or fingerprints. The battery compartment is easily accessible, making battery replacement quick and easy. I expect this rangefinder to provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder comes with a carrying case and a lanyard. While there aren’t many specific customization options available, the standard tripod mount allows for stable use during long-range ranging.

It is compatible with most standard tripods and mounting systems. This allows for a more stable ranging platform when necessary. Third-party accessories such as lens cleaning kits can also be used to maintain the rangefinder’s performance.

Pros and Cons of Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder

Who Should Buy Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder?

The Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and recreational shooters who need a reliable and accurate ranging tool. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prioritize ease of use and portability.

If you require advanced features like ballistic calculations or target identification, or if you consistently operate in extremely bright conditions, you might consider a higher-end model with a more advanced display. A must-have accessory is a high-quality lens cleaning kit to maintain optimal performance.

Conclusion on Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder

The Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder is an impressive piece of equipment that delivers accurate and reliable performance at a reasonable price. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and packed with features that make it a valuable tool for hunters and shooters alike.

The $289.99 price tag is definitely justified, considering its accuracy, durability, and user-friendly design. I would absolutely recommend the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder to anyone looking for a dependable rangefinder without breaking the bank. Invest in your accuracy and confidence in the field – grab the Athlon Midas 1 Mile 6x Laser Rangefinder and see the difference it makes!