Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP Review

Let’s Talk About Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP

The Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP is making waves in the long-range shooting and hunting communities, and for good reason. Athlon Optics has built a reputation for delivering quality optics at a price point that doesn’t require emptying your bank account. With features like locking turrets, a first focal plane (FFP) reticle, and a robust 34mm tube, this scope promises to bring high-end performance to the masses.

I needed a scope that could reliably hold zero on my .300 Win Mag, offer precise adjustments for long-range shots, and wouldn’t break the bank. My old scope, a budget-friendly option I picked up years ago, just wasn’t cutting it anymore; its adjustments were mushy, and it seemed to lose zero after every range trip. That’s what led me to the Athlon Helos BTR Gen II.

Unboxing the Athlon Helos BTR Gen II was a pleasant surprise. The scope felt solid and well-constructed, with a reassuring heft that spoke to its durability. The turrets had a positive, tactile click, and the matte finish looked clean and professional.

I considered the Vortex Viper PST Gen II and the Primary Arms GLx 4.5-27×56 before settling on the Athlon. While the Vortex has a loyal following, its price was a bit higher, and some reviews mentioned a tighter eye box. The Primary Arms GLx was tempting with its advanced reticle options, but I wanted something with simpler, more traditional controls.

My first impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. This scope looked like it could deliver, but the proof would be in the pudding, or rather, on the range. I was eager to see if the Athlon Helos BTR Gen II could live up to the hype and become a reliable companion for my long-range shooting endeavors.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP to my local shooting range, which offers distances out to 600 yards. The weather was clear and sunny, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for testing. I mounted the scope on my Remington 700 .300 Win Mag using a set of high-quality 34mm rings.

The scope performed admirably, even in the bright sunlight. The advanced fully multi-coated lenses provided a bright and clear image, making it easy to spot targets at all distances. Adjusting the parallax was smooth and precise, allowing me to eliminate any blurriness and achieve a crisp image.

The initial setup was straightforward, but I did need to spend a bit of time getting used to the locking turrets. Once I understood the locking mechanism, however, they proved to be a valuable asset, preventing accidental adjustments in the field. There were no immediate issues, and the scope seemed to hold zero perfectly after the first 50 rounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Athlon Helos BTR Gen II continues to impress. It has endured multiple range trips, a hunting excursion in the mountains, and even a few accidental bumps and scrapes. Despite the rigors of use, the scope shows no signs of wear and tear.

The durable construction and XPL coating have kept the lenses clear and scratch-free. Cleaning the scope is simple, requiring only a lens cloth and a few minutes of my time. I’ve been particularly impressed with its ability to maintain zero, even after hundreds of rounds and significant recoil from my .300 Win Mag.

Compared to my previous budget scope, the Athlon is in a different league entirely. Its accuracy, clarity, and reliability have significantly improved my long-range shooting performance. It has definitely exceeded my expectations, proving to be a worthy investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP

Specifications

The Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP boasts an impressive array of features:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm. This large objective lens gathers plenty of light, resulting in a bright image even in low-light conditions.
• Magnification: 6 – 24 x. This magnification range is ideal for both medium and long-range shooting, offering versatility for various applications.
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm. The wider tube allows for greater internal adjustment range, crucial for dialing in shots at extreme distances. Note: User reviews indicate 34 mm as opposed to the stated 30 mm in previous listings; verify before purchase.
• Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP). An FFP reticle means the reticle’s size changes proportionally with the magnification, allowing for accurate holdovers at any magnification.
• Exit Pupil: 9.3 – 2.3 mm. The exit pupil affects how much light reaches your eye; a larger exit pupil is more forgiving, especially in low light.
• Illumination Color: Red. The illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions or against dark backgrounds.
• Field of View, Linear: 6.8 – 19.9 ft at 100 yds. This determines how much you can see at a given distance; a wider field of view makes it easier to acquire targets.
• Eye Relief: 3.7 in. Adequate eye relief is essential for comfortable shooting, especially with high-recoil calibers, preventing scope bite.
• Weight: 34.5 oz. While not the lightest scope on the market, the weight is reasonable considering the robust construction and features.
• Length: 14.3 in. This is a fairly standard length for a scope in this class, and it shouldn’t cause any mounting issues on most rifles.

These specifications are vital for optimal performance, particularly for long-range shooting. The large objective lens, wide magnification range, and FFP reticle combine to deliver a clear image, accurate holdovers, and precise adjustments, allowing shooters to confidently engage targets at varying distances.

Performance & Functionality

The Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP performs exceptionally well, delivering on its promise of accuracy, reliability, and usability. The image quality is outstanding, with minimal distortion even at higher magnifications. The turrets are precise and repeatable, allowing for quick and easy adjustments in the field.

One minor weakness is the eye box, which can be a bit tight at higher magnifications, requiring a more consistent cheek weld. However, this is a common characteristic of many high-magnification scopes and not a deal-breaker. Overall, the Athlon exceeds expectations, providing a level of performance typically found in scopes costing significantly more.

Design & Ergonomics

The Athlon Helos BTR Gen II features a robust and well-thought-out design. The materials used are high-quality, and the scope feels solid and durable. The weight is balanced, and the scope sits comfortably on my rifle.

The controls are intuitive and easy to use, with a positive click to each adjustment. The scope requires minimal familiarization and is very user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Athlon Helos BTR Gen II is built to last. The rugged construction and weather resistance make it capable of withstanding harsh conditions. I anticipate this scope will provide many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and wiping down the exterior. The XPL coating helps to repel water and dirt, making cleaning even easier.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II does not come with a vast array of accessories, but it includes the essentials: lens caps and a lens cloth. Aftermarket accessories, such as sunshades and throw levers, are readily available and can enhance the scope’s functionality.

The Athlon Helos BTR Gen II is compatible with standard 34mm scope rings, making it easy to mount on a variety of rifles. The FFP reticle also opens up possibilities for using ballistic apps and rangefinders with holdover data directly applicable to the reticle.

Pros and Cons of Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP?

The Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP is perfect for:

• Hunters seeking a reliable and accurate scope for medium to long-range hunting.
• Competitive shooters looking for a budget-friendly option for PRS-style competitions.
• Long-range enthusiasts wanting to improve their accuracy without breaking the bank.

This scope may not be ideal for:

• Shooters prioritizing lightweight and compact designs.
• Those needing an extremely forgiving eye box at high magnifications.

A must-have accessory for this scope is a set of high-quality 34mm scope rings. A sunshade can also be beneficial for reducing glare in bright conditions, and a throw lever can make magnification adjustments quicker and easier.

Conclusion on Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP

The Athlon Optics Helos BTR Gen II 6-24×56 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, FFP is a winner. It delivers exceptional value, providing a level of performance and features typically found in much more expensive scopes. The image quality is outstanding, the turrets are precise, and the FFP reticle makes long-range shooting more accessible than ever.

The price is more than justified for the performance you get. You’re getting a scope that can legitimately compete with models costing hundreds of dollars more.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Athlon Helos BTR Gen II to anyone looking for a reliable, accurate, and feature-rich scope for long-range shooting or hunting. Don’t hesitate – upgrade your shooting experience today!