The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope Made a Bold First Impression
Having spent over a decade peering through various optics, from budget-friendly red dots to high-end European glass, I consider myself a seasoned scope aficionado. When the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope arrived, I was immediately struck by its sleek design and the promise of features typically found in scopes costing significantly more. This scope, from Athlon Optics, aims to deliver top-tier performance without breaking the bank, a claim I was eager to put to the test.
I was looking for a versatile scope that could transition seamlessly between precision long-range shooting at the range and more dynamic engagements in practical rifle competitions. My aging optic lacked clarity at higher magnifications and had a mushy turret feel. The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope, with its HD glass and tactical features, seemed like the ideal solution.
Unboxing the Midas TAC HD, I was pleased with the solid feel and substantial weight, indicating quality materials. The matte black finish was evenly applied, and the turrets clicked with a satisfying, positive engagement. Compared to my aging Bushnell Elite Tactical, the Athlon felt more refined and modern.
I also considered the Vortex Viper PST Gen II and the Primary Arms GLx 4.5-27x56mm. I ultimately chose the Athlon Midas TAC HD because of its combination of features, reputation for quality glass at its price point, and capped windage turret, which I prefer for most applications. My first impression was one of excited anticipation; this scope seemed ready to deliver on its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local range, a mix of covered benches and open-air shooting positions extending out to 600 yards. I mounted the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope on my trusty .308 precision rifle. I was immediately impressed with the clarity and brightness of the image, even at higher magnifications.
The weather was typical for a Pacific Northwest afternoon: overcast with intermittent light rain. The HD glass cut through the gloom, providing a crisp and clear sight picture. Zeroing was straightforward thanks to the precise and repeatable adjustments. I found the capped windage turret particularly reassuring, preventing accidental adjustments while moving between shooting positions.
After only a couple of magazines, I had the Midas TAC HD zeroed and was consistently hitting steel out to 600 yards. The MIL reticle was intuitive to use for holdovers, and the parallax adjustment was effective in eliminating any blurring. My only initial concern was the somewhat stiff magnification ring, which required a bit of effort to turn.
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 to several practical rifle matches in varying conditions, from dry and dusty to wet and muddy. It has continued to provide a clear and accurate sight picture. The hard Zero Stop ensures a quick and repeatable return to zero, a crucial feature in competitive shooting.
The Midas TAC HD has held up remarkably well, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. The finish is durable, and the turrets continue to click positively. I’ve only needed to clean the lenses periodically with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner. The scope has outperformed my expectations, providing a level of performance that rivals scopes costing twice as much.
Compared to my previous optic, the Athlon offers significantly improved clarity, a more precise reticle, and a more robust build. The value is undeniable.
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 is a feature-rich optic designed for precision shooting. It boasts a magnification range of 6-24x, providing versatility for both close-quarters and long-range engagements. The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light, ensuring a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions.
The scope features HD Glass, which minimizes chromatic aberration and provides exceptional clarity and color fidelity. All lenses are Fully Multi-Coated, maximizing light transmission and reducing glare. The 30mm tube diameter offers a wide range of adjustment. It houses a First Focal Plane (FFP) MIL reticle, ensuring accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification.
Other key specifications include a hard Zero Stop, capped windage turret, and aircraft-grade aluminum construction for durability. These features translate to a scope that is both precise and rugged, capable of withstanding the rigors of field use.
Performance & Functionality
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate sight picture for precision shooting. The HD glass delivers exceptional clarity, allowing for easy target identification and precise shot placement. The MIL reticle is well-designed and intuitive to use, facilitating quick and accurate holdovers and ranging.
The scope’s adjustments are precise and repeatable, ensuring consistent accuracy over time. The hard Zero Stop is a valuable feature for returning to zero quickly and reliably. One minor weakness is the somewhat stiff magnification ring, which could be improved with a throw lever attachment. Overall, the Midas TAC HD meets and exceeds expectations for a scope in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midas TAC HD boasts a sleek and functional design. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. The scope feels solid and well-built in hand, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand harsh conditions.
The turrets are easy to grip and manipulate, providing tactile and audible clicks for precise adjustments. While the magnification ring is a bit stiff, it is still functional. Overall, the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope is user-friendly and ergonomically sound, requiring minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope is built to last. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides excellent durability, and the scope is nitrogen-purged for water and fog proofing. With proper care and maintenance, the scope should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple: wipe down the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner as needed. The scope’s robust construction minimizes the need for repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope comes with lens covers. Aftermarket accessories such as throw levers for the magnification ring can further enhance usability. The 30mm tube diameter makes it compatible with a wide range of scope mounts from various brands.
The MIL reticle is a standard feature, so it’s compatible with various MIL-based ranging tools and ballistic calculators. This compatibility makes it easy to customize the scope to your specific shooting needs.
Pros and Cons of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope
Pros
- Exceptional HD Glass Clarity: Provides a bright and clear image, even at higher magnifications and in low-light conditions.
- Precise and Repeatable Adjustments: Ensures consistent accuracy and reliable zeroing.
- Hard Zero Stop: Enables quick and easy return to zero, a crucial feature for tactical and competitive shooting.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of field use.
- Excellent Value for Money: Offers high-end features at a mid-range price point.
Cons
- Stiff magnification ring that can be difficult to turn, especially with gloves.
- The eye box is slightly tight at higher magnification, requiring precise head positioning.
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 recreational target shooters, practical rifle competitors, and hunters who demand a versatile and accurate optic. This scope will be ideal for anyone seeking high-end features without the high-end price tag.
This scope might not be the best choice for those seeking an ultra-lightweight or extremely compact optic. Those with a very high budget and specific needs might consider higher-end European brands for the absolute best optical performance.
A must-have accessory would be a throw lever for the magnification ring to improve ease of adjustment. High-quality scope rings are also essential for secure and accurate mounting.
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 outstanding optic that delivers exceptional performance and features at a competitive price. It provides a level of clarity, precision, and durability that rivals scopes costing significantly more.
The price of $649.99 is definitely justified given the scope’s performance and features. This scope represents an excellent value proposition.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MIL Reticle Rifle Scope to anyone looking for a versatile and accurate optic. Upgrade your shooting experience today and see the difference Athlon quality can make!