My first impression of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope promises a lot: high-definition glass, precision adjustments, and a ranging reticle, all housed in a robust 30mm tube. The Athlon name has been gaining traction in the optics world, known for packing features into affordable packages, and this scope seemed to continue that trend. Could this be the optic that finally delivers premium performance without breaking the bank?
For years, I’ve been chasing that elusive combination of clarity, precision, and durability in a rifle scope. My old scope, a budget model from a well-known brand, just wasn’t cutting it anymore. I needed something that could handle long-range shooting, target identification in low light, and the occasional bump in the field.
The unboxing experience was promising. The scope felt solid, the turrets clicked with authority, and the overall fit and finish appeared to be well above what the price tag suggested. It certainly looked like a contender.
I was considering the Vortex Viper PST Gen II and the Primary Arms GLx 4.5-27x56mm, both strong competitors in this price range. However, the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope won me over with its combination of features, specifically the capped windage turret – a preference for preventing accidental adjustments in the field. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I couldn’t wait to get it mounted and see what it could do.
Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope on my trusty .308 and headed to my local range. The range offers distances out to 600 yards, a perfect proving ground for a scope like this. Initial impressions were positive: the glass clarity was noticeable, and the reticle was crisp and easy to read.
The wind was whipping around at about 15 mph, making for a challenging first session. The capped windage turret proved its worth immediately, preventing any accidental adjustments as I moved around the bench. The exposed elevation turret, with its hard zero stop, allowed for quick and reliable adjustments for the varying distances.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope has become a staple on my .308. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from sunny days at the range to a drizzly hog hunt in central Texas. The scope has held zero flawlessly, even after a few bumps and scrapes.
There are minor signs of wear on the turret caps, but nothing that affects performance. Cleaning the lenses is easy with a microfiber cloth, and the scope seems to be holding up well to the elements. It has consistently outperformed my previous optic in terms of clarity, accuracy, and overall reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope
Specifications
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope boasts several key specifications. HD Glass provides excellent clarity and light transmission. Fully Multi-Coated Lenses enhance target appearance at all distances.
- Magnification: 6-24x.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm.
- Reticle: MOA-based, First Focal Plane (FFP).
- Tube Diameter: 30mm.
- Turret Style: Exposed Elevation with Hard Zero Stop / Capped Windage.
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum.
- Price: $689.99.
These specifications translate directly to real-world benefits. The HD glass and multi-coated lenses provide a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions. The 30mm tube offers a wider range of adjustment.
Performance & Functionality
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope excels in performance and functionality, providing both accuracy and ease of use. The tracking on the turrets is precise and repeatable, making dialing in shots at long range a breeze. The hard zero stop is a crucial feature for quickly returning to your base zero.
The clarity of the glass and the well-designed MOA reticle make target acquisition and ranging relatively simple. The First Focal Plane reticle ensures that the MOA subtensions remain accurate at all magnification levels. While the capped windage turret is great for preventing accidental adjustments, it does add a slight inconvenience when needing to make quick wind calls.
Design & Ergonomics
The scope is well-built, with a robust feel that inspires confidence. The turrets are tactile and provide audible clicks. The magnification ring is smooth and easy to adjust.
The weight is reasonable for a scope of this size and feature set. Mounting the scope was straightforward, and the included instructions were clear and concise.
Durability & Maintenance
The aircraft-grade aluminum construction suggests that the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope is built to last. The anodized finish seems resistant to scratches and wear. Maintenance is minimal; simply cleaning the lenses with a lens cloth is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope doesn’t come with a ton of accessories, but it includes the essentials: lens caps and a basic manual. The 30mm tube allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket scope rings and mounts. While there are no direct customization options for the scope itself, the MOA reticle is a standard that is compatible with many ballistic calculators and apps.
Pros and Cons of Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope
Pros
- Excellent HD Glass: Provides a clear and bright image.
- Precise Turrets with Hard Zero Stop: Allows for accurate and repeatable adjustments.
- Capped Windage Turret: Prevents accidental adjustments in the field.
- First Focal Plane Reticle: Ensures accurate ranging at all magnifications.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand rugged use.
Cons
- Capped Windage: Adjustments are slower than with an exposed turret.
- Limited Accessories: Doesn’t include advanced features like a throw lever.
Who Should Buy Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope?
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope is perfect for long-range shooters, hunters who need a versatile optic for varying distances, and anyone looking for a high-quality scope on a budget. It’s especially well-suited for those who prioritize reliable adjustments and a durable build. Those who require rapid windage adjustments might find the capped turret a bit cumbersome.
A quality set of scope rings and a throw lever for the magnification ring would be must-have accessories to enhance the user experience.
Conclusion on Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope
The Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope delivers exceptional value for its price point. It offers a winning combination of high-definition glass, precise adjustments, and a durable construction, making it a reliable tool for a variety of shooting applications. The capped windage turret might not be for everyone, but it adds a layer of security against accidental adjustments in the field.
The price is definitely justified by the features and performance you get. I would absolutely recommend the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope to anyone looking for a quality optic without breaking the bank. If you’re in the market for a versatile and reliable rifle scope, give the Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24x 50mm MOA Reticle Rifle Scope a serious look. You might just be as impressed as I am.