My first impression of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope
The world of rifle scopes can be a confusing place, filled with acronyms, technical jargon, and price tags that rival a decent used car. Enter the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope, a contender aiming to deliver high-end features without the crippling cost. This scope promises a lot: HD glass, a first focal plane MIL reticle, and a robust build, all from Athlon Optics, a name I’ve seen gaining traction in the shooting community.
For years, I’ve been relying on a mismatched collection of scopes – some decent, some downright disappointing. I needed a versatile optic that could perform well at both shorter ranges for tactical drills and longer distances for precision shooting, without breaking the bank. I was searching for clarity, repeatability, and ruggedness, all in one package.
Out of the box, the Midas TAC HD feels solid and well-constructed. The turrets have a satisfying click, and the zoom ring moves smoothly. Compared to my older Vortex Diamondback Tactical, the Midas TAC HD immediately felt like a step up in glass quality. It’s not quite on par with a Nightforce, which I’ve used extensively in the past, but for the price point, the initial impression was definitely positive.
I was cautiously optimistic; the market is saturated with “budget” scopes that promise the world and deliver disappointment. The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope had the potential to be a real game-changer, or just another pretender.
Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope was at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on steel targets at distances ranging from 100 to 600 yards. The weather was typical for spring in the Midwest: overcast with occasional drizzle, a challenging environment for testing glass clarity. Mounting the scope was straightforward on my AR-10 platform, using a quality one-piece mount.
Immediately, the HD glass impressed me. Even in the less-than-ideal lighting conditions, the image was bright and clear, making target acquisition much easier than with my older optics. The MIL reticle was intuitive to use, allowing for quick holdovers and accurate ranging after a brief familiarization period. The turrets were easy to adjust, with audible and tactile clicks, which made dialing in corrections a breeze.
The hard zero stop was also a welcome feature, making it simple to return to my established zero after making adjustments for longer shots. I didn’t need much time to get used to the scope; its intuitive design and clear markings made the learning curve minimal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve taken it out in various conditions, including a dusty desert environment and a humid forest during a hog hunt. It has held zero consistently through it all.
The scope shows no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic blemishes from regular use. Cleaning the lenses is simple with a quality lens cloth, and the overall finish seems durable. Compared to my previous experiences with budget-friendly scopes, the Midas TAC HD has far exceeded my expectations. It provides a level of clarity and repeatability that I previously associated with much more expensive optics.
Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope
Specifications
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope boasts a number of impressive specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It features a 6-24x magnification range, providing versatility for both close-quarters engagements and long-range precision. The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light, even in low-light conditions.
The HD glass delivers exceptional clarity and color rendition. The scope is built on a robust 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube. The first focal plane MIL reticle ensures that the subtensions remain accurate throughout the entire magnification range, crucial for precise ranging and holdovers. Other key features include a hard zero stop, capped windage turret, and fully multi-coated lenses.
These specifications translate to a scope that is well-suited for a wide range of applications, from tactical shooting to hunting and long-range target practice. The combination of high-quality glass, a precise reticle, and a durable build makes the Midas TAC HD a compelling option for serious shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope truly shines in terms of performance and functionality. Its optical clarity is outstanding, allowing for quick and accurate target identification, even at higher magnifications. The tracking is precise and repeatable, making it easy to dial in corrections and return to zero.
The MIL reticle is well-designed and provides ample information without being overly cluttered. The hard zero stop is a game-changer, preventing accidental over-travel when returning to your established zero. While the capped windage turret is a nice touch for preventing accidental adjustments, some may prefer an exposed turret for quicker windage adjustments in dynamic shooting scenarios.
Overall, the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope meets and exceeds expectations for a scope in its price range. The scope offers a level of performance that rivals more expensive optics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midas TAC HD features a sleek and functional design. The build quality is excellent, with a robust feel that inspires confidence. The scope’s weight is reasonable for its size and features, not adding excessive bulk to the rifle.
The turrets are easy to grip and adjust, even with gloves on. The zoom ring is smooth and offers the right amount of resistance. The eye relief is generous and consistent throughout the magnification range, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. The scope’s user-friendly design minimizes the learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope is built to last. Its rugged construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in the field. The scope is also waterproof and fog-proof, providing reliable performance in harsh weather conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean the lenses regularly with a quality lens cloth and inspect the scope for any signs of damage. With proper care, the Midas TAC HD should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope comes with lens covers to protect the glass during storage and transport. While there aren’t many “customization” options for the scope itself, its compatibility with standard 30mm scope mounts allows for a wide range of mounting options. Aftermarket accessories like throw levers for the zoom ring can enhance its usability.
The scope is also compatible with various anti-cant devices. The user can ensure that the rifle is perfectly level for precise long-range shots.
Pros and Cons of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope
Pros
- HD glass provides exceptional clarity and color rendition.
- Precise and repeatable tracking ensures accurate adjustments.
- First focal plane MIL reticle allows for accurate ranging and holdovers at any magnification.
- Hard zero stop simplifies returning to your established zero.
- Robust build quality ensures durability and reliability.
Cons
- Capped windage turret may not be ideal for shooters who prefer quick windage adjustments.
- *While good, the glass isn’t *quite* on par with top-tier (and much more expensive) optics.*
Who Should Buy Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope?
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope is perfect for serious shooters who demand high performance without breaking the bank. This includes hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical enthusiasts who need a versatile and reliable optic. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a basic scope to something with more advanced features.
Those who demand absolute top-of-the-line glass quality and are willing to pay a premium for it might consider other options. Someone who primarily shoots at very short ranges might also not need the high magnification range that this scope offers.
A must-have accessory is a quality scope mount that will securely attach the scope to the rifle and maintain zero. A throw lever for the zoom ring can also be a helpful addition for quick magnification adjustments.
Conclusion on Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope is an impressive optic that delivers exceptional value for its price. It offers a compelling combination of high-quality glass, precise tracking, a well-designed reticle, and a robust build. This is a scope that punches well above its weight class.
At $649.99, the price is more than justified by the performance and features that the Midas TAC HD offers. I would absolutely recommend this scope to anyone looking for a versatile and reliable optic that won’t break the bank. If you’re in the market for a new rifle scope, give the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope a serious look – you won’t be disappointed.