Best Athlon Rangefinders: Review and Comparison
In the ever-evolving world of precision optics, Athlon rangefinders have made a significant mark in 2024. Known for their blend of innovation, reliability, and user-friendly features, these devices cater to the nuanced needs of hunters, marksmen, and outdoor enthusiasts.
As you navigate the diverse offerings from Athlon, this guide aims to bring clarity and insight, helping you choose the rangefinder that aligns perfectly with your outdoor pursuits.
If you're pressed for time, here's our pick of the two Athlon rangefinders:
Athlon Rangefinders: Buyer’s Guide
Athlon is a relatively recent entrant in the rangefinder market, swiftly gaining recognition for offering top-notch products at competitive prices. Tailored for hunters, marksmen, and outdoor aficionados, Athlon rangefinders provide precise and reliable distance measurements under various conditions.
Whether you're tracking deer, practicing target shooting, or simply reveling in the great outdoors, Athlon has a rangefinder to suit your requirements. But how do you pinpoint the ideal Athlon rangefinder for your needs? Consider the following essential aspects.
Range and Accuracy
Primarily, the range and accuracy of a rangefinder are paramount. The device's range indicates the maximum distance it can measure, while its accuracy reflects the precision of these measurements. Ideally, opt for a rangefinder with a range and accuracy that surpasses your target distance.
For instance, if your hunting activities typically occur within 300 yards, selecting a model like the Talos 800Y, capable of measuring up to 800 yards with an accuracy of +/- 1 yard, might be prudent. Drawing from our experience, Athlon rangefinders offer a range spanning 300 to 1700 yards and boast an accuracy of +/- 3 yards or finer, contingent on the specific model.
Angle Compensation and Scan Mode
Critical features such as angle compensation and scan mode are worth your attention. Angle compensation adjusts the distance measurement considering the shot's angle, crucial for uphill or downhill shooting due to its impact on bullet drop and trajectory.
Scan mode, on the other hand, facilitates continuous measurement of distances to various or moving targets, aiding in pinpointing small or homogenous targets. Athlon rangefinders are equipped with both angle compensation and scan mode, model-dependent. Familiar terms associated with Athlon rangefinders include:
HCD (Horizontal Component Distance): Reflects the angle-compensated distance, equivalent to the target's horizontal distance. Predominantly the primary mode for Athlon rangefinders, HCD is highly suitable for most hunting situations.
LOS (Line of Sight): Represents the actual straight-line distance to the target, devoid of angle compensation. This mode is invaluable for long-range shooting or when integrating a ballistic calculator.
Scan: Enables continuous distance measurement to various or moving targets, aiding in the assessment of small or homogenous targets. This feature is prevalent in most Athlon rangefinders.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Through our practical knowledge, we understand the significance of a rangefinder's durability and weather resistance. Athlon rangefinders are constructed to endure rugged conditions and rough handling. They feature rubber armor for a secure grip and safeguard against impacts and abrasions.
O-ring seals offer added protection against moisture, dust, and debris infiltration. The internal components are encased in nitrogen gas to prevent fogging due to temperature variations. Athlon rangefinders' waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof nature renders them fit for any weather and environment.
Warranty and Customer Service
A notable highlight of Athlon rangefinders is the lifetime warranty accompanying each device. This warranty covers any form of damage or defect, irrespective of the cause or ownership history. Athlon's commitment to repair or replace your rangefinder at no charge reflects their confidence in their product's quality and durability.
Additionally, Athlon's customer service is exemplary, characterized by friendliness, efficiency, and responsiveness. Whether you prefer to communicate via phone, email, or online chat, Athlon's customer support team is ready to assist with any queries or concerns you may encounter.
Best Athlon Rangefinder Models: TOP 3
Here are the top current Athlon Rangefinder models that you can find on the market:
- Waterproof and rainproof
- Lightweight design
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Wide effective range of 5-1700 yards
- User-friendly with features like Scan Mode and Argon purging
- Accurate up to 850 yards
- Lightweight, with a durable Magnesium chassis
- Multi-functional
- Argon purged
- Lifetime warranty on optical products
- Ranges accurately from 5 to 1200 yards
- Lightweight at 0.38 pounds, easy to carry
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Nitrogen purged
- Versatile with angle compensation and line of sight modes
Athlon Rangefinders Comparison
For easy comparison, here is a table of specifications of the best Athlon Rangefinders:
| Specification | Talos 800Y | Midas 1 Mile | Midas 1200Y |
| Color | Blue | Tan | Not specified |
| Material | Plastic | Plastic with Magnesium Chassis Base | Rubber |
| Weight | Not specified | Not specified | 0.38 Pounds |
| Range | 5-850 yards | 5-1700 yards | 5-1200 yards |
| Magnification | 6x | 6x | 6x |
| Ranging Deer | 300 yards | 800 yards | 800 yards |
| FOV Angular | 7 Degrees | 6 Degrees | 6 Degrees |
| Accuracy | +/- 1 yard | +/- 0.5 yard | +/- 0.5 yard |
| Battery | CR2-3V | CR2-3V | CR2-3V |
| Waterproof / Rainproof | Waterproof (specifics not mentioned) | Waterproof | Rainproof |
| Fully Multi-coated Optics | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Angle Compensation Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Line of Sight Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scan Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Nitrogen / Argon Purged | Not specified | Argon Purged | Nitrogen Purged |
| Illuminating Display | Not specified | Not specified | OLED with 5 Illumination Settings |
| Additional Features | Lightweight, Carrying Pouch | Lightweight, Easy to Adjust, UHD Glass Lenses | Hunting and Golf Mode, Dual Units of Measurement, Rubber Armor, Diopter Adjustment, Protective Carrying Case |
Now let's take a closer look at each of the Athlon Rangefinder models.
Athlon Optics Midas 1 Mile
Best Overall
The Athlon Optics Midas 1 Mile rangefinder is an advanced, high-performance device designed for precision and durability in a wide range of outdoor activities, including golf and hunting. Equipped with state-of-the-art features, this rangefinder boasts an impressive effective range distance of 5-1700 yards, ensuring accurate measurements across vast distances.
Constructed with a robust plastic body in a subtle tan color, the device is not only visually appealing but also built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The waterproof feature guarantees protection in the harshest weather conditions or if accidentally submerged underwater, making it a reliable companion for all weather scenarios. Its fully multi-coated optics minimize reflected light and maximize light transmission, providing a brighter image than typical single-coated lenses. The High-quality BaK4 prisms, coupled with ESP Dielectric Coating and Phase Coating, ensure maximum light gathering and brilliant color fidelity, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The Athlon Optics Midas 1 Mile is remarkably lightweight, thanks to its Magnesium chassis base, reducing weight by 30-40% while increasing strength by 40-50% compared to traditional aluminum materials. The user-friendly design allows for easy adjustment of the eyecups, ensuring optimal comfort for the eyes and a maximum field of view. The Argon purging offers superior fog-proof capabilities due to Argon gas's lower thermal conductivity compared to nitrogen, ensuring clear vision in any condition.
Advanced features like the Scan Mode for quick readings on different objects or tracking a moving target, the angle compensation mode, and the line of sight mode further enhance the device's functionality, making it versatile for various applications. The dual units of measurement for distance (M/Y), tripod adaptability, diopter adjustment, and rubber armor for additional protection and a secure grip are thoughtful additions that cater to the user's convenience and the device's durability.
The Athlon Optics Midas Laser Rangefinder is not just a tool but a reliable partner for those who demand accuracy, durability, and versatility in their outdoor pursuits.
Pros:
- Waterproof and rainproof for all-weather reliability
- Lightweight design with a Magnesium chassis, reducing weight significantly
- Fully multi-coated optics and high-quality BaK4 prisms for superior image quality
- Wide effective range of 5-1700 yards with high accuracy
- User-friendly with features like Scan Mode and Argon purging for fog-proof vision
Cons:
- Not submersible, limited to rainproof protection
- Requires CR2-3V batteries, additional consideration for long trips
- High precision features may require a learning curve for new users
Summary: The Athlon Optics Midas 1 Mile rangefinder is recognized as a high-performance, versatile tool for outdoor enthusiasts. As indicated by our tests, its amalgamation of durability, precision, and user-friendly features renders it an excellent choice for activities such as golf and hunting, ensuring reliability and accuracy in a multitude of conditions.
- Waterproof and rainproof for all-weather reliability
- Lightweight design with a Magnesium chassis, reducing weight significantly
- Fully multi-coated optics and high-quality BaK4 prisms for superior image quality
- Wide effective range of 5-1700 yards with high accuracy
- User-friendly with features like Scan Mode and Argon purging for fog-proof vision
Athlon Optics Talos 800Y
People's Choice
The Athlon Optics Talos 800Y rangefinder is a top-of-the-line optical instrument designed for golfers and hunters seeking precision and versatility in their equipment. It offers an impressive ranging capability of 6-850 yards, ensuring accuracy for even the most distant targets. The device is specifically engineered to be lightweight, enhancing its portability and ease of use in the field or on the course. The inclusion of a carrying pouch, strap, battery, cleaning cloth, and user manual ensures that users have everything they need to maintain and utilize the rangefinder effectively.
This rangefinder is not just about distance measurement; it's about providing a comprehensive solution for accurate shot-making. It features UHD Glass lenses, Advanced Fully Multi-coated optics, and High-quality BaK4 prisms enhanced with ESP Dielectric Coating and Phase Coating. These features work together to gather maximum light and produce brilliant color fidelity, ensuring a clear and vibrant visual experience. The Athlon Module 5's Magnesium chassis base significantly reduces the device's weight by 30-40% while increasing strength by 40-50% compared to traditional aluminum materials.
Ease of use is at the heart of the design, with knobs that users can easily twist and adjust to set the eyecups to the ideal comfort for their eyes, ensuring a maximum field of view. Furthermore, the device's Argon-purged feature, utilizing high-grade Argon gas with low thermal conductivity compared to nitrogen, offers superior fog-proof capabilities, ensuring clear vision in various atmospheric conditions.
The rangefinder comes with line-of-sight and angle-compensated distance options, making it a versatile tool for both target shooting and golfing. Its optical products are rigorously tested for waterproofing, fog-proofing, and shock-proofing, ensuring they meet stringent quality standards. Athlon's commitment to quality is evident in the lifetime warranty offered on their optical products, emphasizing their dedication to durability and customer satisfaction.
Pros:
- Accurate up to 850 yards, ideal for golf and hunting
- Lightweight, with a durable Magnesium chassis
- Multi-functional with line-of-sight and angle compensation
- Argon purged for superior fog-proof capabilities
- Lifetime warranty on optical products
Cons:
- Range limited to 850 yards for very long distances
- Requires regular maintenance (cleaning, battery change)
- Learning curve for advanced features
Summary: The Athlon Optics Talos 800Y rangefinder, a highly precise and versatile tool, is perfect for both golfers and hunters. We have found from using this product that its durable construction, advanced optical features, and comprehensive accessory kit make it an invaluable addition to any outdoor enthusiast's gear collection.
- Accurate up to 850 yards, ideal for golf and hunting
- Lightweight, with a durable Magnesium chassis
- Multi-functional with line-of-sight and angle compensation
- Argon purged for superior fog-proof capabilities
- Lifetime warranty on optical products
Athlon Optics Midas 1200Y
Author's Choice
The Athlon Optics Midas 1200Y laser rangefinder is a sophisticated, high-performance device designed to meet the precise needs of both hunters and golfers. Its versatility and accuracy make it a standout in its class. Weighing just 0.38 pounds and encased in a durable, non-slip rubber armor, it combines portability with ruggedness, suitable for the most challenging outdoor conditions.
The Midas 1200Y is capable of ranging from 5 to 1200 yards, offering quick and accurate measurements essential for both hunting and golfing. The device is equipped with multiple modes to enhance its utility: the angle compensation mode, which provides the true horizontal distance to the target, is invaluable for shooting from steep elevations. The line of sight mode offers the actual line of sight range, critical for flat ground shooting and golfing. Additionally, the scan mode allows quick readings on different objects or tracking a moving target, ideal for dynamic situations.
One of the Midas 1200Y's most notable features is its fully multi-coated optics, which significantly reduce reflected light and enhance light transmission, resulting in a brighter image compared to normal single coated lenses. This ensures clear and vivid visuals in various lighting conditions. The OLED illuminating display, with five illumination settings, offers excellent visibility in different environments.
This rangefinder is also nitrogen purged, which enhances its fog-proof capabilities, ensuring clear vision regardless of weather conditions. It has a rainproof build, ensuring its durability and reliability in wet conditions. The diopter adjustment feature allows customization for individual eye differences, enhancing the user experience.
For further convenience, the Midas 1200Y displays readings in both yards and meters, catering to diverse preferences and requirements. The package includes a protective carrying case and a protective wrap, enabling use of the laser while keeping it protected. Its 6X magnification, 21 mm objective lens, and 15.0 mm eye relief offer a comfortable and expansive field of view.
Pros:
- Ranges accurately from 5 to 1200 yards
- Lightweight at 0.38 pounds, easy to carry
- Fully multi-coated optics for brighter images
- Nitrogen purged for excellent fog-proof capabilities
- Versatile with angle compensation and line of sight modes
Cons:
- Limited to 1200 yards, may not suffice for extreme long-range
- Requires CR2-3V battery, additional expense
- Learning curve for utilizing advanced features
Summary: The Athlon Optics Midas 1200Y laser rangefinder, known for its compactness, efficiency, and versatility, is ideal for both hunting and golfing enthusiasts. Our analysis of this product revealed that it offers exceptional accuracy, a range of user-friendly features, and a durable build, making it an indispensable addition to any outdoor adventure or sports equipment.
- Ranges accurately from 5 to 1200 yards
- Lightweight at 0.38 pounds, easy to carry
- Fully multi-coated optics for brighter images
- Nitrogen purged for excellent fog-proof capabilities
- Versatile with angle compensation and line of sight modes
FAQ about Athlon Rangefinder Models
How do I get my Athlon rangefinder ready for use?
Setting up your Athlon rangefinder is straightforward:
- Insert the CR2 lithium battery into the battery compartment, ensuring correct polarity. The battery is provided with your purchase;
- Activate the device by pressing the power button. You'll see the default settings on the display, including range mode, measurement units, and angle compensation;
- To customize settings, hold the mode button until the display blinks. Use the power button to navigate the options and the mode button to confirm your selections. This is where you adjust range mode (HCD or LOS), measurement units (yards or meters), and angle compensation (on/off);
- Exit the settings by holding the mode button until the display stabilizes. These settings remain until you decide to change them.
What's the proper way to use my Athlon rangefinder?
Operating your Athlon rangefinder is a breeze:
- Switch the device on by pressing the power button. The display will indicate the current settings and battery status;
- Point the rangefinder at your target, ensuring it's within the device's range and field of view. Adjust focus using the eyecup and clarify the display via the diopter;
- Press the power button briefly to emit the laser and initiate measurement. The display will present the distance and shot angle. If angle compensation is active, it will also show the Horizontal Component Distance (HCD) – the equivalent horizontal distance to your target;
- For another measurement, hit the power button again. For continuous measurement of various or moving targets, hold the power button to engage scan mode. The display will continually update the distance and angle as you shift the rangefinder;
- To power down, hold the power button until the display turns off. The device also auto-shuts after 10 seconds of inactivity.
How can I clean and maintain my Athlon rangefinder?
Proper care will ensure your rangefinder's longevity:
- Remove dust or debris using a soft brush or compressed air, targeting the lens and device body;
- For lens cleaning, gently use a lens or microfiber cloth. Avoid materials like paper towels or clothing that could scratch the lens;
- For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with lens cleaner or a mild soap solution. Never apply liquid directly to the lens, as it could harm the coatings or seals;
- Dry the lens with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid using heat or blowing on the lens to prevent fogging or condensation;
- Store your rangefinder in a cool, dry, and shaded area. Avoid exposure to extreme conditions and remove the battery if the device will be idle for an extended period.
What does Athlon's warranty cover for their rangefinders?
Athlon stands firmly behind their products with the Athlon Gold Medal Lifetime Warranty. This warranty covers any damage or defect, regardless of the cause or previous ownership. Athlon commits to repair or replace your rangefinder at no charge, showcasing their confidence in their product's durability and performance.
Additionally, Athlon prides itself on excellent customer service, ready to assist via phone, email, or online chat for any concerns or questions.
Best Rangefinders from Athlon: Summary
Embarking on a journey with an Athlon rangefinder promises an experience where precision meets durability. The detailed exploration of various models, from the Talos 800Y to the Midas 1200Y, underlines the brand's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
As you reflect on the insights provided, remember that choosing the right rangefinder is more than a purchase - it's an investment in enhancing your outdoor adventures, ensuring every moment is captured with clarity and precision.
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