How to choose an Athlon riflescope
Focal plane
A first focal plane reticle grows and shrinks with magnification, so its marks stay true at every power; a second focal plane reticle reads true at one set magnification. In Athlon's range the two do not follow price: the Midas TAC GEN2 is first focal plane throughout, while the Midas HMR GEN2 and Ares HLR are second focal plane.
Glass and tube
Athlon describes its glass in four steps: fully multi-coated, advanced fully multi-coated, HD and UHD. Tubes come in 1-inch, 30 mm and 34 mm, and a 34 mm tube generally allows more internal elevation travel, but tube size is not a tier marker in Athlon's range.
Turrets and illumination
The real trade sits in turrets and illumination, and it cuts across price. The Midas HMR GEN2 and Ares HLR lines are illuminated throughout, and the Heras SPR carries a locking windage turret across the line.
The eleven lines
From the Argos HMR, all second focal plane on a 1-inch tube, to the Cronus BTR GEN2 UHD at the top of the range, Athlon's eleven lines are compared model by model in our riflescope guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
FFP or SFP?
FFP if you use the reticle's marks at different magnifications, since they stay true at every power. SFP if you mostly hunt at one setting and want a reticle that stays the same size.
Will my rings fit?
Match the ring diameter to the scope's tube exactly: Athlon makes scopes with 1-inch, 30 mm and 34 mm tubes.
For mounting and the rest of the setup, read Riflescope Accessories, and browse all our riflescopes.