Best Athlon Spotting Scopes: Review and Comparison
In the dynamic world of outdoor exploration and precision observation, the right equipment can make all the difference. Enter Athlon Spotting Scopes, a game-changer in the field of high-performance optical devices.
Renowned for their versatility and power, these scopes cater to a diverse array of interests, from the meticulous birdwatcher to the adventurous traveler. In 2024, Athlon continues to set the standard in optical excellence.
This guide provides an in-depth look into Athlon's world-class spotting scopes, helping you choose the perfect companion for your outdoor pursuits.
If you're pressed for time, here's our pick of the two Athlon Spotting Scopes:
Athlon Spotting Scopes: Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to observing the wonders of nature or honing in on a distant target, the right optical equipment is indispensable. Athlon, a renowned name in the world of optical devices, offers a range of spotting scopes that cater to a variety of needs, whether you're a hunter, a shooter, an avid birdwatcher, or a travel enthusiast. Athlon's range of spotting scopes, known for their power and versatility, can transform the way you see and interact with the world.
In this guide, we'll delve into the features and benefits of Athlon spotting scopes, providing you with valuable insights to help you select the perfect one for your adventures.
Types of Athlon Spotting Scopes
Athlon's spotting scopes come in three primary categories: Cronus, Ares, and Talos. The Cronus series stands at the pinnacle, boasting the finest optical quality, robust durability, and exceptional performance. The mid-range Ares spotting scopes, such as the Athlon Ares G2 UHD 20-60x85, offer a remarkable balance of superb optical quality, reliability, and value. At the entry-level, the Talos series provides good optical quality combined with affordability and user-friendliness.
Consider Various Factors
When choosing an Athlon spotting scope, it's crucial to consider various factors:
Magnification: Athlon scopes offer magnifications ranging from 15x to 60x. While higher magnification allows for more detailed viewing, it can also amplify hand movements. Therefore, selecting a magnification that aligns with your activities is essential, and utilizing a tripod or window mount is advisable for higher magnifications.
Objective Lens Diameter: This is the size of the front lens, determining the light-gathering capability of the scope. Athlon offers diameters from 50mm to 86mm. A larger diameter means a brighter image but also adds to the weight and size of the scope. Choose according to your viewing needs and consider carrying accessories for convenience.
Glass Quality: The type and quality of the glass affect image clarity, color, and contrast. Athlon uses various glass types like ED, HD, or BK-7, with the higher quality often reflecting in the price. For critical tasks such as hunting or precision shooting, opting for higher glass quality is advisable.
Features: Athlon spotting scopes come equipped with features like advanced lens coating, argon purging, rubber armor, dual focus, and more. These features can significantly enhance the scope’s performance and convenience. It’s important to select a model with features that align with your specific requirements.
Drawing from our experience, Athlon spotting scopes are more than just optical tools, they're gateways to a richer, more detailed observation of the world. Whether you're tracking a rare bird species through the wilderness or waiting for the perfect shot, the clarity, and precision of an Athlon scope can be transformative.
We understand that the choice of a spotting scope is deeply personal and contingent on your specific outdoor pursuits. For instance, birdwatchers might prioritize a lighter, more portable scope, while long-range shooters might look for higher magnification and stability.
Athlon spotting scopes stand out for their quality, versatility, and range of options suited for various outdoor activities. From the rugged terrains of hunting expeditions to the serene landscapes for birdwatching, there's an Athlon spotting scope tailored to meet and exceed your expectations.
By considering factors like magnification, lens diameter, glass quality, and additional features, you can find a scope that not only suits your needs but also enhances your viewing experience.
Best Athlon Spotting Scope Models: TOP 5
Here are the top current Athlon Spotting Scope models that you can find on the market:
- UHD Glass and Aprochromatic Lens System
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses
- Argon Purging offers excellent waterproofing
- Patented High Riser Mount
- Aluminum Alloy Chassis and XPL Coating protect
- UHD Glass and Apochromatic Lens System
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof
- Magnesium chassis reduces weight
- ESP Dielectric Coating
- Easy-to-adjust knobs and eyecups
- Apochromatic lenses and ED Glass
- Advanced Fully Multi-coated lenses
- Magnesium chassis reduces weight
- Argon purging
- Dual focus knobs allow
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses
- Waterproof and Argon Purged
- Rotating Ring and Rubber Armor
- Extendable Sunshade minimizes flare
- Backed by Athlon's lifetime warranty
- Fully Multi-Coated lenses
- Waterproof and nitrogen purged
- Rotating Ring allows
- Composite chassis is rugged yet light
- 20-60x magnification and 80 mm lens
Athlon Spotting Scopes Comparison
For easy comparison, here is a table of specifications of the best Athlon Spotting Scopes:
| Specification | Cronus Tactical 7-42×60 | Ares G2 20-60x85 | Argos 20-60x85 HD | Cronus 12-36x50 ED | Talos 20-60x80 |
| Magnification | 7-42x | 20-60x | 20-60x | 12-36x | 20-60x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 60mm | 85mm | 85mm | 50mm | 80mm |
| Apochromatic Lens System | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| ED Glass | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Lens Coating | Advanced Fully Multi-Coated | Advanced Fully Multi-Coated | Advanced Fully Multi-Coated | Advanced Fully Multi-Coated | Fully Multi-Coated |
| Field of View @1000yds | 284-47.6 ft | 99-47 ft | 14m/1000m to 31m/1000m | 171-90 ft | 14.6m/1000m to 25.26m/1000m |
| Exit Pupil | 5.2-1.43 mm | 1.4-4.25 mm | 1.42 mm to 4.2 mm | 4.1-1.4 mm | 1.22 mm to 3.3 mm |
| Eye Relief | 30 mm | 17.78-19.5mm | 17.8-19.5mm | 0.7-0.59" | 15.24mm to 17.78mm |
| Close Focus | 10' | 12m | 12m | 26.2′ | 0.5m |
| Weight | 46.6 oz | 70 oz | 1953g | 26.5 oz | 1100g |
| Argon Purged | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years |
Now let's take a closer look at each of the Athlon Spotting Scope models.
Athlon Cronus Tactical 7-42×60
Premium Choice
The Athlon Cronus Tactical 7-42×60 spotting scope is a state-of-the-art optical instrument designed for precision and reliability. It boasts a range of high-end features that cater to the needs of long-range shooters, hunters, and sniper teams. One of its standout features is the Aprochromatic Lens System, which ensures images are rendered with superior contrast, sharpness, and color definition. The system is complemented by Ultra-High Definition (UHD) Glass, which minimizes chromatic aberration, resulting in a clearer and sharper image.
The spotting scope is equipped with Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses, which enhance light transmission, ensuring that images are bright and colors are true across the entire light spectrum. The scope’s durability and reliability in various environmental conditions are assured by its Argon Purging. This process uses inert gas with larger molecules to eliminate any moisture in the tube, enhancing the scope's waterproofing and thermal stability.
A unique feature of this model is the Patented High Riser Mount, which allows for seamless integration and co-witnessing with Athlon Laser Rangefinders. This feature is especially beneficial for tactical operations and precise shooting. The spotting scope also includes a Tactical Accessorized Readiness feature with an embedded Picatinny Rail base mount, enabling effortless attachment of various tactical accessories.
The Athlon Cronus Tactical 7-42×60 is robustly built, with an Aluminum Alloy Chassis protecting the lens system against harsh elements. Additionally, the exterior lenses are safeguarded by an XPL Coating, which provides extra protection against dirt, oil, and scratches. The scope is also waterproof, ensuring performance in the most challenging weather conditions or if accidentally submerged underwater.
The spotting scope comes with a TSSR FFP MIL reticle, ideal for range estimation and tactical cooperation with the shooter. It offers a magnification range of 7-42x, an objective lens diameter of 60mm, and a field of view of 284-47.6 ft at 1000 yards. The eye relief is a comfortable 30 mm, and the scope has a close focus distance of 10 feet. Weighing 46.6 oz and measuring 13.9"x3.2" in dimensions, the scope is relatively compact and manageable.
Pros:
- UHD Glass and Aprochromatic Lens System ensure sharp, clear images
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses for optimum brightness and true color
- Argon Purging offers excellent waterproofing and thermal stability
- Patented High Riser Mount and Tactical Accessorized Readiness feature for enhanced utility
- Aluminum Alloy Chassis and XPL Coating protect against harsh elements and scratches
Cons:
- At 46.6 oz, it may be heavier than some alternatives
- Its dimensions may require ample space for transportation
Summary: The Athlon Cronus Tactical 7-42×60 spotting scope emerges as a premier optical device, delivering unmatched clarity, precision, and reliability. As indicated by our tests, its sturdy build, cutting-edge optical technologies, and tactical enhancements render it an essential asset for avid shooters and nature enthusiasts, even considering its relatively higher weight and cost.
- UHD Glass and Aprochromatic Lens System ensure sharp, clear images
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses for optimum brightness and true color
- Argon Purging offers excellent waterproofing and thermal stability
- Patented High Riser Mount and Tactical Accessorized Readiness feature for enhanced utility
- Aluminum Alloy Chassis and XPL Coating protect against harsh elements and scratches
Athlon Ares G2 UHD 20-60x85
Best Overall
The Ares G2 20-60x85 UHD Spotting Scope from Athlon Optics is a masterpiece of precision and reliability, designed to enhance your outdoor experience, be it hunting, shooting at the range, or bird watching. Engineered with top-quality materials and advanced optical technology, this scope promises superior performance and durability. With a magnification range of 20-60x and an eyepiece angle of 45 degrees, the Ares G2 is versatile and powerful. It features an apochromatic lens system and Ultra-High Definition (UHD) glass, reducing chromatic aberration and delivering images of unparalleled clarity and sharpness.
The scope's ESP Dielectric Coating reflects over 99% of the light to your eyes, ensuring bright, clear images with accurate color reproduction. The advanced, fully multi-coated lenses optimize light transmission, further enhancing the image quality. The Ares G2 is not just about optical excellence; it's also built to last. The aluminum alloy chassis provides a sturdy and lightweight structure, while the XPL coating protects the exterior lenses from dirt, oil, and scratches. Argon purging gives the scope superior fog-proof capabilities, and its waterproof and shockproof design ensures it can withstand the toughest conditions.
The scope's ergonomic design includes an ocular lens, twist-up eyecup, focus adjustment, extendable sunshade, objective lens, rotating ring, tripod mount, and power change ring, all thoughtfully positioned for ease of use. Weighing 70 ounces, with an eye relief of 0.77-0.70 inches, and measuring 16.9 x 4 inches, the Ares G2 strikes a balance between functionality and portability.
Athlon, a U.S.-based company, is committed to delivering high-quality optics and outdoor accessories. By partnering with quality manufacturers and rigorously testing their products for waterproofing, fog-proofing, and shock-proofing, Athlon ensures that each product meets stringent quality standards. The Ares G2, with its comprehensive feature set, is a testament to Athlon's dedication to providing superior-quality optics at a competitive price.
Pros:
- UHD Glass and Apochromatic Lens System ensure unparalleled clarity and sharpness
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof for dependable performance in any condition
- Magnesium chassis reduces weight without compromising strength
- ESP Dielectric Coating maximizes light reflection for vivid images
- Easy-to-adjust knobs and eyecups for comfortable and precise viewing
Cons:
- At 70 oz, may be bulky for extended handheld use
- May require significant space for transport and storage
Summary: The Athlon Ares G2 20-60x85 UHD Spotting Scope stands as a high-performance, versatile, and robust optical instrument, tailored for outdoor enthusiasts seeking precision and reliability. Our findings show that its top-notch optics, solid construction, and intuitive design make it a valuable investment for an array of outdoor pursuits.
- UHD Glass and Apochromatic Lens System ensure unparalleled clarity and sharpness
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof for dependable performance in any condition
- Magnesium chassis reduces weight without compromising strength
- ESP Dielectric Coating maximizes light reflection for vivid images
- Easy-to-adjust knobs and eyecups for comfortable and precise viewing
Athlon Cronus 12-36x50
Author's Choice
The Athlon Cronus 12-36x50 ED is a meticulously engineered spotting scope that sets a new benchmark in optical performance and durability. Designed with the avid outdoorsman in mind, it offers a perfect blend of precision and ruggedness, making it an ideal companion for a wide range of activities including hunting, bird watching, and target shooting. This scope embodies Athlon's commitment to excellence, combining advanced optical technologies and user-centric design to deliver an unmatched viewing experience.
At the heart of this spotting scope lies the Apochromatic Lens System, which ensures images of extraordinary contrast, sharpness, and color definition. The Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) Glass minimizes chromatic aberration, translating to images of utmost clarity and sharpness. The state-of-the-art ESP (Enhanced Spectral Prism) Dielectric Coating guarantees that 99% of light is reflected through the prism assembly, offering a bright, clear image with accurate color reproduction.
The Advanced Fully Multi-coated lenses optimize light transmission, resulting in peak brightness and true color across the entire light spectrum. The BaK-4 prisms further enhance the light reflection, ensuring images that are both brighter and sharper. Durability is a cornerstone of the Athlon Cronus 12-36x50 ED, with a Magnesium chassis providing the strength of metal while reducing weight by up to 30%. The XPL coating on the exterior lenses offers protection against scratches, dust, and other natural elements.
This spotting scope is Argon Purged, offering superior waterproofing and thermal stability. The dual focus mechanism allows for both rapid and fine-tuned focus adjustments. Waterproof and fog-proof, the Cronus 12-36x50 ED is built to perform flawlessly in the harshest weather conditions or if accidentally submerged underwater.
Weighing 26.5 oz and measuring 9.8"x2.6", the Athlon Cronus 12-36x50 ED is relatively compact and portable. Its robust construction and advanced optical features make it an indispensable tool for outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliability and performance.
Pros:
- Apochromatic lenses and ED Glass ensure unparalleled clarity and sharpness
- Advanced Fully Multi-coated lenses for optimal brightness and true color
- Magnesium chassis reduces weight while ensuring durability
- Argon purging offers excellent waterproofing and thermal stability
- Dual focus knobs allow for rapid and fine-tuned focus adjustments
Cons:
- At 26.5 oz, it may be slightly heavy for prolonged handheld use
- Compact but requires careful handling and storage
Summary: After trying out this product, it's clear that the Athlon Cronus 12-36x50 ED is a superior-quality spotting scope that excels in clarity, durability, and precision. It stands as the optimal selection for discerning outdoor enthusiasts who seek nothing less than the pinnacle of optical performance and dependability.
- Apochromatic lenses and ED Glass ensure unparalleled clarity and sharpness
- Advanced Fully Multi-coated lenses for optimal brightness and true color
- Magnesium chassis reduces weight while ensuring durability
- Argon purging offers excellent waterproofing and thermal stability
- Dual focus knobs allow for rapid and fine-tuned focus adjustments
Athlon Argos 20-60x85
Bestseller
The Athlon Argos 20-60x85 HD Angled Spotting Scope is a pinnacle of optical engineering, designed to cater to the most demanding outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it's for target shooting, hunting, wildlife monitoring, or stargazing, this scope is built to deliver an unrivaled viewing experience. With its Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses and high-quality Porro Prisms, the Argos HD ensures the highest level of light transmission, providing optimum brightness and true color across the entire light spectrum.
This spotting scope is built to withstand the toughest conditions. It's waterproof, making it resilient in the harshest weather conditions or even if it gets submerged underwater. The Argon Purging not only enhances waterproofing but also ensures thermal stability and fog-proof protection, keeping your view clear regardless of the temperature or humidity changes.
Comfort and convenience are at the forefront of the Argos HD design. It features a durable rubber armor for easy handling and a rotating ring that allows you to adjust the scope for the most comfortable and convenient angle of observation. The extendable sunshade minimizes unwanted flare and reflection, ensuring better image clarity.
Athlon Optics, a proud US-based company, stands behind the Argos HD with a lifetime warranty, attesting to its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The spotting scope's light-weight composite chassis is protected by rubber armor, making it both fog-proof and waterproof. The nitrogen filling prevents internal fogging and promotes better thermal stability.
In terms of specifications, the Athlon Argos 20-60x85 HD offers a variable magnification from 20x to 60x, with a lens diameter of 85 mm. It provides a wide field of view and comes with an eyepiece angle of 45° for comfortable viewing. The scope is tripod adaptable, making it suitable for extended observation sessions. Its solid construction and green color blend seamlessly with the outdoor environment.
Pros:
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses ensure optimum brightness and true color
- Waterproof and Argon Purged for superior weather resistance and thermal stability
- Rotating Ring and Rubber Armor for easy handling and comfortable viewing
- Extendable Sunshade minimizes flare, ensuring clear and sharp images
- Backed by Athlon's lifetime warranty, testifying to its quality and durability
Cons:
- At 1953g, may be considered heavy for prolonged handheld use
- Relatively large, requiring careful handling and storage
- At 12m, may not be ideal for very close observations
Summary: The Athlon Argos 20-60x85 HD Spotting Scope is a testament to Athlon's commitment to delivering high-quality, durable, and user-friendly optics. Its superior light transmission, robust construction, and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for a wide range of outdoor activities, promising an unmatched viewing experience.
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses ensure optimum brightness and true color
- Waterproof and Argon Purged for superior weather resistance and thermal stability
- Rotating Ring and Rubber Armor for easy handling and comfortable viewing
- Extendable Sunshade minimizes flare, ensuring clear and sharp images
- Backed by Athlon's lifetime warranty, testifying to its quality and durability
Athlon Talos 20-60x80
Best Budget
The Athlon Talos 20-60x80 Spotter Scope is an exemplary optical instrument meticulously designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand precision and reliability in their viewing experiences. With an objective lens diameter of 80 millimeters and a magnification range of 20-60x, this spotting scope is a versatile companion for various activities such as bird-watching, hunting, and target shooting at the range.
Crafted with the finest K9 glass prisms with silver coating, the Talos 20-60x80 promises exceptional light reflection, delivering a bright and vivid image to the observer. The lenses are Fully Multi-Coated, ensuring excellent light transmission and providing brilliantly bright images. Combined with high-quality BaK4 prisms and ESP Dielectric Coating plus Phase Coating, the scope gathers maximum light and produces brilliant color fidelity, ensuring every view is a visual feast.
One of the standout features of the Talos 20-60x80 is its nitrogen purging, which uses an inert gas to purge moisture out of the tube, thereby enhancing the scope's waterproofing and thermal stability. This feature ensures the spotting scope remains fog-proof, even in challenging weather conditions. The waterproof feature further solidifies its robustness, protecting the scope in harsh weather conditions or if accidentally submerged underwater.
The Athlon Talos 20-60x80 is designed with user comfort in mind. It features a rotating ring that allows users to easily rotate the scope around the tripod supporting ring into the most comfortable and convenient angle for observation. The lightweight composite chassis, protected by rubber armor, is both fog-proof and waterproof, filled with nitrogen gas to prevent internal fogging and ensure better thermal stability.
Athlon, a renowned U.S. sports optics company, is committed to designing and delivering superior-quality optics and outdoor accessories. The Athlon Talos 20-60x80, rigorously tested to be waterproof, fog-proof, shock-proof, and more, meets the company's high standards, ensuring that users receive a product that excels in both performance and durability.
Pros:
- Fully Multi-Coated lenses and silver-coated prisms ensure bright, vivid images
- Waterproof and nitrogen purged for superior waterproofing and thermal stability
- Rotating Ring allows for comfortable and convenient angle adjustment
- Composite chassis is rugged yet light, ideal for prolonged use
- 20-60x magnification and 80 mm lens cater to various observation needs
Cons:
- At 1100g, it may be slightly heavy for prolonged handheld use
- Only 2 years, shorter than some competitors
- Minimum of 0.5m may not be ideal for very close-range observation
Summary: Our analysis of this product revealed that the Athlon Talos 20-60x80 Spotter Scope is not just a high-quality optical instrument, but also a versatile and sturdy companion for the outdoors. With its exceptional light transmission, intuitive design, and robust construction, it stands as a steadfast choice for any outdoor enthusiast looking to elevate their viewing experience.
- Fully Multi-Coated lenses and silver-coated prisms ensure bright, vivid images
- Waterproof and nitrogen purged for superior waterproofing and thermal stability
- Rotating Ring allows for comfortable and convenient angle adjustment
- Composite chassis is rugged yet light, ideal for prolonged use
- 20-60x magnification and 80 mm lens cater to various observation needs
FAQ about Athlon Spotting Scope Models
What's the process for setting up my Athlon spotting scope?
Getting your Athlon spotting scope ready for action is straightforward. Follow these steps for a hassle-free setup:
- Securely mount your spotting scope on a stable tripod or a window mount. Adjust the setup to your preferred height and viewing angle;
- Carefully remove any protective caps from the lenses and the eyepiece. Then, attach the eyepiece to its designated holder;
- Use the zoom ring to bring your target into view, then fine-tune the image clarity using the focus knob;
- If your model includes a reticle, the reticle focus ring is your tool for making the reticle's image crisp and clear.
What's the best way to clean my Athlon spotting scope?
Keeping your Athlon spotting scope clean ensures you'll enjoy clear views and maintain the device's condition. Here's how to properly clean it:
- To remove dust or debris, gently use a soft, dry cloth or a lens brush. Always handle your scope delicately;
- Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive materials as they can damage the scope’s surface or its special lens coatings;
- It's important to keep your fingers away from the lenses to prevent smudges or fingerprints;
- For stains or foggy lenses, lightly use a lens cleaning kit or a microfiber cloth, applying minimal pressure to the lens surface;
- When not in use, store your scope in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to preserve its quality.
Can you tell me about the warranty for my Athlon spotting scope?
Athlon spotting scopes are backed by the Gold Medal Lifetime Warranty, assuring you of their enduring quality. Here's what you need to know:
- The warranty is timeless, offering coverage for the entire duration of your ownership of the spotting scope;
- It's an all-encompassing warranty, addressing any damages or defects, regardless of their cause. Athlon doesn't ask questions; they just take care of the issue;
- If you need to utilize the warranty, reach out to Athlon's customer service or your local authorized dealer. When you send your spotting scope for service, include a brief note detailing the issue;
- For further information on the Gold Medal Lifetime Warranty, including more specific details, feel free to visit Athlon's official website or consult other reliable online resources.
Best Athlon Spotting Scopes: Conclusion
Navigating through the myriad of choices in the world of optical gear can be daunting. However, this guide has endeavored to shine a light on the path to choosing your ideal Athlon spotting scope. Drawing from our experience, we've dissected the nuances of Athlon's top models, offering insights that resonate with the needs of hunters, birders, and adventurers alike.
As we conclude this journey through the lens of Athlon spotting scopes, it's evident that whether you're capturing the majesty of distant landscapes or zeroing in on your next target, Athlon stands as a beacon of quality, innovation, and unmatched performance in the world of optical devices.
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