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4 Best Athlon Spotting Scope Review

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Athlon optics were only recently established in 2014, but it has taken the optics industry by storm within this short time. Athlon sporting scopes are made in different countries, but the brand ensures a good enough quality across the board. Athlon optics produce binoculars, riflescopes, and spotting scopes.

Athlon may not have as many spotting scopes as other brands since they are new in the industry, but they have enough to cause a selection headache.

So if you’re among the growing Athlon fans looking to get a suitable spotting scope, you may have a little challenge. Nevertheless, your selection dilemma can be made easier with a guide.

Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope - Angled

Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45×65 Spotting Scope – Angled

Our Top Recommendation Athlon Spotting Scope!

This Athlon Ares UHD 15-45×65 spotting scope is topping the list with impressive optical quality. It comes with several modifications that improve the quality of images it produces.

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Here is the guide that shows a list of top spotting scopes by Athlon. In addition, you’ll find specific information on why we see these scopes as some of the best and how they fit your particular use cases.

There are also FAQ and buyer’s guide sections you can use. All this information eliminates any problem in choosing the right spotting scope.

Top Athlon Spotting Scopes

As promised, this section carries out a selection of the best spotting scopes by Athlon. This selection comes from thorough research on all the spotting scopes, including reviews from verified buyers and field testing.

IMAGEPRODUCTFEATURESPRICE
Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope - AngledAthlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope - Angled• Magnification of 15-45x
• ​Objective lens size of 65mm
• Extra-low dispersion glass
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Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - AngledAthlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled• Magnification of 20-60x
• Objective lens size of 80mm
• K9 prisms
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Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope - AngledAthlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope - Angled• Magnification of 20-60x
• ​Objective lens size of 85mm
• Affordable
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Athlon Optics Cronus 12-36x50 Spotting Scope - AngledAthlon Optics Cronus 12-36x50 Spotting Scope - Angled• Magnification of 12-36x
• Objective lens size of 50x
• Lightweight design
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1. Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45×65 Spotting Scope – Angled

Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope - Angled
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The Athlon Ares series is made with a lot of simplicity, so even newbies can use it without stress. The magnification of the spotting scope is 15-45x. Its power caters to viewing medium to long distances. It sports a large 65mm objective lens diameter. Athlon put this objective lens size on a scope with a maximum power of 45x so more light could enter and the scope could produce better images. The eyepiece is also interchangeable, allowing you to switch to another eyepiece.

Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope - Angled review

It weighs 49 ounces which is understandable considering the objective lens and other features. The full metal chassis body is filled with argon to prevent fogging inside and improve thermal stability. The body is also waterproof, which allows you to use the scope in different weather conditions.

View from Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope - Angled

The scope features Bak-4 Porro prisms. Colour definition and contrast are better with this scope. Light transmission through the 65mm objective lens becomes even better with fully multi-coated lenses. One such coating is the ESP Dielectric coating that helps to guide the light to your eyes, ultimately aiding quality images.

Athlon Optics Ares UHD 15-45x65 Spotting Scope - Angled testing by me

There is no chromatic distortion since it uses an extra-low dispersion glass. Another necessary coating on the lenses is the XPL coating that protects against grime and dirt on the surface.

Pros

  • Magnification of 15-45x
  • Objective lens diameter of 65mm
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • No chromatic aberration
  • Bak-4 Porro prisms
  • Interchangeable eyepieces
  • Extra-low dispersion glass

Cons

  • Heavy
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Bonus Read: 5 Best Spotting Scope Under $500 {Expert’s Choice}

2. Athlon Optics Talos 20-60×80 Spotting Scope – Angled

Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled
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The scope here is the Talos series, also known for its ease of use. This scope with a bright yellow body comes with a power range of 20-60x. Long-distance viewing is covered with this scope with high magnification levels. Unsurprisingly, Athlon fixed an 80mm objective lens to help the scope produce good images even at higher power levels.

Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled review

It weighs 38 ounces, which is lightweight, considering the huge objective lens. The composite material Athlon used to make its body helps it remain lightweight. In addition, the nitrogen-filled body stops internal fogging and improves thermal stability. The scope is also waterproof, which adds to the appeal.

Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled setup at my backyard

The K9 Prims and fully multi-coated lenses help the optical system of the spotting scope. Lenses that are coated in this manner transmit light better, boast better durability, and generally produce better images.

Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled testing at gun range

The scope is mountable on regular camera tripod stands. This way, you can utilize your tripod instead of buying another. The rotating ring lets you turn the eyepiece to a suitable position to help you use the scope better. If you’re aiming in positions where the sun hits directly on the objective lens, you’ll find the extendable sunshade quite useful. A limited lifetime warranty backs this Athlon Talos scope.

Pros

  • Magnification of 20-60x
  • Objective lens size of 80mm
  • K9 prisms
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • Extendable sunshade
  • Rotating ring for better viewing
  • Fogproof and waterproof

Cons

  • Bulky
  • The brightly colored body makes it difficult to stay hidden
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3. Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope – Angled

Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope - Angled
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When it comes down to value for money, this Athlon Argos scope is up there with the best. Its features seem like a big coup when you realize its price. With its vast power range of 20-60x, you can view long-range distances without issues. The 85mm objective lens size aids the image quality at these power levels.

Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope - Angled setup in the woods

The HD glass is of superior glass quality. It has Porro prisms and is fully multi-coated with phase coating. The images you can see are ultimately more transparent with fewer color distortions due to the coatings layered on the lenses. You’ll get the correct color representation, no matter the color.

View from Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope - Angled

The scope is heavy at 70 ounces, partly due to the large objective lens. However, the scope is made with durability in mind. If it is accidentally submerged in water? You have nothing to worry about as it is waterproof. The tube is purged with argon to stop fog from forming inside and obstructing your view. The rubber armor on the body acts as a solid grip and protection in case it falls.

Picture of my friend taken by me testing Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85mm Spotting Scope - Angled

An extendable sunshade prevents glare and light reflection from the lens. The rotating ring lets you turn the lens to a more suitable position. The soft case protects the spotting scope when it is not in use. It sports an eye relief of “0.77 to 0.70” depending on the magnification.

Pros

  • Magnification of 20-60x
  • Objective lens diameter of 85mm
  • Protective rubber armor
  • HD glass
  • Porro prism
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • Waterproof, fog proof, and durable
  • Great value for money
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy
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Also Read: How to Look Through a Scope – The Right Way

4. Athlon Optics Cronus 12-36×50 Spotting Scope – Angled

Athlon Optics Cronus 12-36x50 Spotting Scope - Angled
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This Athlon scope is the spotting scope with the lowest power level in this list, ranging between 12 and 36x. This low power is similar to most riflescopes scope levels, but the spotting scope offers more clarity in most cases. The clarity is helped further by using a 50mm objective lens so light can enter.

picture of my friend shot by me testing the Athlon Optics Cronus 12-36x50 Spotting Scope - Angled

It uses an extra-low dispersion glass that reduces any chromatic aberration to its minimum. It uses a bak-4 prism glass with an apochromatic lens. You’ll find that images are sharp, the contrast is clear, and all the colors are represented. The lenses are fully multi-coated with different helpful materials, including protective and anti-glare layers. The ESP Dielectric coating directs light to the eyes and improves the images you can see.

Athlon Optics Cronus 12-36x50 Spotting Scope - Angled unboxing

The protective layers on the lenses make them more durable and resistant to dust, scratches, and grime. The scope is adequately sealed to make it waterproof and filled with argon to make it fogproof. It is lightweight at 26.5 ounces and has an eye relief from “0.7 to 0.56“, depending on the power.

Pros

  • Magnification of 12-36x
  • Objective lens size of 50mm
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • Lightweight
  • Great optical quality
  • Bak 4 prism glass
  • Apochromatic lens
  • Extra-low dispersion glass

Cons

  • The low power makes it unsuitable for extreme distances
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Athlon Optics Buyer’s Guide

Athlon Optics Buyer's Guide
Image source: backwoodspursuit.com

The above list of the best Athlon spotting scopes may not do justice to every scenario, which is why a buyer’s guide like this is necessary. This way, you don’t have to rely on only the listed scopes; you can also make your decision. Here are the things you should consider:

1. Magnification

Magnification or power is the most apparent number on a scope. It represents the number of times you can increase the image. You can select between a fixed or variable power eyepiece. Variable magnification eyepieces offer you a range so you can view across vast distances. Check the distance you’ll typically be viewed at and ensure the magnification of the Athlon scope you want to buy matches it.

Bonus Read: Best Long Range Rifle Scopes – Our Top 7 Choice

2. Objective Lens Size

Objective Lens Size

Objective lens size is a figure that comes after the magnification in a scope. It refers to the size of the objective lens and the other lens closer to the target. Select an Athlon scope with a large enough objective lens size for light to enter the tube and brighten the images. However, it would help if you also were wary of choosing an unnecessarily wide lens as it increases the weight and makes it bulky. The right balance is required here.

3. Glass Type

The glasses Athlon used for their scopes vary depending on the level. Higher grades come with high-definition glasses, extra-low dispersion glasses, and more. While mid or low level has bak-7 and bak4 glasses. In this case, the Bak-4 glass is preferable.

4. Weight

Consider the weight of the spotting scope and determine if you’ll be comfortable carrying the scope around. Many factors can affect the weight of your spotting scope; the size of the objective lens, material for the body, additional features, and more can affect its weight. Nevertheless, some scopes have impressive lightweight designs that reduce the overall weight and size.

Bonus Read: 4 Best Bushnell Spotting Scope {Our Top Pickup}

5. Durability

Durability
Image source: Amazon.co.uk

The durability of a spotting scope relies on several things like the lens quality, the body, how the body is sealed, and more. You want to check if it is weatherproof, especially important in areas with a lot of moisture or dust. You also want to consider how it holds up when it accidentally hits the ground.

FAQ’s For Athlon Spotting Scope

Some questions will keep recurring, and that is why we’ve added this section to answer some common questions people have about spotting scopes of Athlon.

Where are Spotting Scopes of Athlon Made of?

They made these spotting scopes in Japan and China. China makes most of the scopes, while Japan makes one of the series.

Does Athlon Optics have a Lifetime Warranty?

Yes, Athlon Optics has a transferable lifetime warranty for its products.

What are Athlon Spotting Scopes Known for?

Athlon spotting scopes are known for their ease of use.

Summary

Athlon may be new to the industry, but it hasn’t taken long to establish itself, producing great spotting scopes for decent price ranges. They may not have the numbers yet, but they still have enough to cover whatever your needs may be.

About Author

James Towndrow, a NRA-certified Firearms Instructor. During a career of 18 years had won several shooting competition including major leagues. Taking all those experience down the road, is now a successful Shooting Instructor in Texas, US.