First Impressions of Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders arrive promising speed and accuracy, a critical combination for any serious hunter or shooter. Boasting a lightning-fast scan mode and angle compensation, this rangefinder seems poised to be a game-changer. Athlon Optics aims to deliver high-performance optics at a reasonable price, and this offering looks to continue that trend. This rangefinder has many useful features at a great price point.
As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’ve dealt with rangefinders that were either painfully slow, wildly inaccurate, or about as user-friendly as a porcupine. I needed a reliable and compact tool for accurately ranging targets during both hunting trips and long-range target practice. A rangefinder that could quickly acquire targets at varying distances and provide accurate readings, even on uneven terrain, was the goal. I found my way to this device after searching and researching for days.
Upon unboxing the Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders, I was immediately impressed by its compact and lightweight design. The black and tan rubber armor felt solid and provided a secure grip, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of the field. It had a solid feel in the hand which made me feel as if this would be a product I could rely on for years.
Compared to my older Bushnell Scout 1000, the Athlon Optics Midas Gen II felt noticeably smaller and lighter, a major plus for packing into the backcountry. My Leupold RX-1600i was certainly more powerful, but its bulk made it less appealing for everyday carry. The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders seemed to strike a perfect balance between performance and portability. The compact and lightweight design make this device great for use in the field.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders looked and felt like a quality piece of equipment. I was excited to get it out in the field and see if it could live up to its promises. Time would only tell if this rangefinder would be a valuable asset or another piece of gear gathering dust on the shelf.
Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders at my local shooting range, followed by a weekend deer hunt in the Appalachian Mountains. The range provided a controlled environment to test its accuracy at known distances, while the hunt offered real-world scenarios with varying terrain and weather conditions. I wanted to test the reliability of the rangefinder and see how quickly it could obtain target readings.
During my range test, the weather was clear and sunny, but the mountain hunt brought rain and fog. The rangefinder performed admirably in both conditions. Despite the weather, it always seemed to be working perfectly. I was very impressed with the performance.
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. The intuitive button layout and clear OLED display made ranging targets a breeze, even with gloves on. After powering it on, I was able to point and click without any additional complications.
The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the diopter to achieve a perfectly sharp image. Once dialed in, however, the view was crystal clear. Aside from this, there were no further difficulties with its performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders continues to perform reliably. It has become an indispensable part of my gear. I can count on this device for any of my outdoor needs.
Despite being subjected to mud, rain, and the occasional accidental bump, the rangefinder shows no signs of wear and tear. The rubber armor has held up exceptionally well, protecting the internals from the elements. I am thoroughly impressed with its durability.
Cleaning is a simple matter of wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth. The lenses have remained scratch-free, thanks to the fully multi-coated optics. The exterior is simple to clean and maintain.
Compared to my previous rangefinders, the Athlon Optics Midas Gen II outperforms them in terms of speed, accuracy, and ease of use. It has earned a permanent spot in my hunting pack. I find myself reaching for this device instead of any other rangefinder that I’ve owned.
Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders
Specifications
- Magnification: 6x, providing a clear and stable image for ranging targets at extended distances. 6x magnification helps me to see distant targets more clearly.
- Maximum Range: 1760 yards, suitable for both hunting and long-range shooting applications. A range of up to 1760 yards gives me the reach and confidence I need.
- Accuracy: +/- 0.5 yards, ensuring precise readings for accurate shot placement. The high accuracy provides confidence in making critical decisions.
- Weight: 4.8 oz, making it incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for long days in the field.
- Dimensions: 3.9 in (Length) x 1.4 in (Width), compact and easily fits in a pocket or pack. Its small size allows for easy storage.
- Eye Relief: 15 mm, providing comfortable viewing, even for users with eyeglasses. The eye relief ensures a comfortable viewing experience.
- Weather Resistance: Waterproof, protecting it from rain, snow, and other environmental factors. I can rely on this device even in harsh weather.
- Battery Type: CR2 Lithium Metal, offering long-lasting power. The CR2 battery is long lasting and easy to replace.
- Display: OLED Illuminating, providing clear and bright readings in all lighting conditions. The display is easy to read in any condition.
- Measurement System: Yards, catering to the preference of most hunters and shooters. Using yards as a measurement makes it easy to adjust my sights.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the rangefinder’s performance and usability. The high magnification and accuracy allow for precise ranging, while the lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry and use in the field. The waterproof construction ensures reliability in all weather conditions, and the OLED display provides clear readings in any lighting. These features enable me to more effectively perform my hunting or shooting duties.
Performance & Functionality
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders performs exceptionally well in its primary function: accurately ranging targets. The scan mode is incredibly fast, providing near-instantaneous feedback as you sweep across the landscape. This is beneficial for targeting moving animals.
The angle compensation mode works flawlessly, providing true horizontal distances even on steep inclines. The ability to measure height and line of sight distances is also a valuable asset for planning your next move in challenging terrain. It is able to provide angles for any inclined landscape.
The primary weakness I’ve found is its performance in extremely dense fog, where the laser can struggle to penetrate the haze. Overall, the rangefinder has exceeded my expectations, providing reliable and accurate readings in a variety of conditions. In these conditions, it is best to move closer to your intended target to better obtain the reading.
Design & Ergonomics
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders boasts a rugged yet ergonomic design. The rubber armor provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when wet. The small form factor fits comfortably in the hand and is easy to operate with one hand. The rubber grips help to securely hold the device.
The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, with clearly labeled buttons and a straightforward menu system. There is virtually no learning curve involved. The user interface is easily learned and operated with one hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders appears to be built to last. The waterproof construction and rugged rubber armor provide ample protection from the elements and accidental impacts. The waterproof design is rugged and durable for long-term use.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and exterior. The use of high-quality materials and construction suggests that this rangefinder will provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning will keep the lenses in pristine condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders comes with a basic carrying case and a lens cleaning cloth. While there are no official customization options, the standard CR2 battery is readily available from most retailers. The carrying case is a useful tool for keeping the device safe from damage.
The rangefinder is compatible with most standard tripod adapters, allowing for stable and hands-free operation. The ability to mount to a tripod is ideal for long-range shooting sessions.
Pros and Cons of Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders
Pros
- Lightning-Fast Scan Mode: Provides near-instantaneous readings, crucial for ranging moving targets.
- Accurate Angle Compensation: Delivers true horizontal distances, ensuring precise shot placement on uneven terrain.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Easy to carry and operate with one hand, ideal for backcountry hunting.
- Waterproof Construction: Protects the rangefinder from the elements, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions.
- Clear OLED Display: Provides bright and easy-to-read readings in any lighting.
Cons
- Occasional Struggles in Dense Fog: Laser penetration can be limited in extremely foggy conditions.
- Limited Customization Options: Lacks advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity or ballistics calculations.
Who Should Buy Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders?
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand speed, accuracy, and reliability in a compact and affordable package. Those who seek a fast and reliable rangefinder for various activities will find the best use for this device.
This product is not ideal for users who require advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, ballistics calculations, or extremely long-range capabilities. Those who need added features would benefit from a different rangefinder.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality tripod adapter for stable, hands-free operation during long-range shooting sessions. This makes long distance shooting much easier.
Conclusion on Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders
The Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders is an impressive piece of equipment that delivers on its promises of speed, accuracy, and reliability. Its compact and lightweight design, combined with its lightning-fast scan mode and accurate angle compensation, make it a valuable asset for any hunter or shooter.
The price of $299.99 is more than justified by the rangefinder’s performance and features. It offers excellent value for the money compared to other rangefinders in its class. I consider this a steal for the price.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Athlon Optics Midas Gen II 1 Mile 6x Rangefinders to anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable, and affordable rangefinder. It is an investment that will undoubtedly improve your accuracy and success in the field. It is a game changing device that has improved my ability to range targets accurately. Don’t hesitate, grab one today and experience the difference for yourself!