Athlon Helos BTR II 2-12x42 AHMR2 FFP Reticle - New Mid-Budget Champ?

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This is a good feeling scope that works well. It has to pass the longevity test, but if it does. This may be the best overall mid-budget MPVO on the market. Watch how it will compare to is sibling the Athlon Helos BTR II 1-10 SFP, The Swampfox Kentucky Long 2-12x44, As well as the Swampfox Arrowhead 1-10, and the old Top Dog. The Vortex Viper PST I 2.5-10x32. How do you think this'll hold up?
00:00 - Unboxing
13:34 - Reticle Overview
15:10 - Turret Twistin'
15:31 - Tracking Test
18:13 - Rooftop Day
22:45 - 1k Y
23:44 - Rooftop Dusk
25:22 - Smallbore
26:36 - Eyebox
27:33 - Comparisons; Athlon 1-10, Swampfox 2-12, 1-10, Vortex PST I 2.5-10
38:26 - Final Thoughts.
#athlonoptics #firstpersonshooter #fpr #mpvo
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[@joearledge1]

Not sure why Primary Arms doesn't see a market for 2-12. To me, it's the new 3-9. Great for hunting, plinking, target shooting, and tac-tie-cool applications out to 1,000ish. Not the best for ultra precision long range or CQB, but fits nearly everything in between. I'd love to see PA and Arken put out some good competitors in 2-12 in the $300-$500 range.

[@CDOES]

I completely agree. A option from arken would be nice. 34mm tube, 2-12 for their typical price point would be perfect

[@m07c]

Joseph - i suggested this very scope to Arken last week via mail as i thought maybe they would be more nimble with new scope lines vs a larger co.. / 2-12, FFP, Locking / Zero Stop Turret, 20ish oz., jap glass, SPR type scope. They basically told me they were working on a LPVO (just what the market needs i guess) and said they would pass the suggestion along. Basically, "kick rocks"!

[@SCQT]

Nightforce needs to update their 2-10 with a new model to compete and provide a truly premium option. The Credo 2-10 is not good enough.

[@Ripper13F1V]

@@SCQT This in spades. I've heard they are updating their NXS line, so we might just get that.

[@shaolinwarriormark]

Swampfox warhawk 3-15, and this fall, battlehawk 2-16×50 recce mil comes out

[@The_PotionSeller]

Feature length review? Yes please. You're a machine my guy, love your videos

[@CDOES]

😘 Only the best for you!

[@jonboyhst6448]

@@CDOES would this scope go good with a 16" ar15?

[@jordanr8312]

Thanks for the review! I have had this scope a little over a year and it really does punch outside its weight class. I'm glad you are a fan of it as well. I've shot out to nearly 600 yards on steel and with this rifle and it doesn't leave me wanting.

[@melechc7267]

good review, thanks!

[@survivalcrusoe]

very good review, seems like an excellent choice

[@darrellgriffith6756]

Terrific review and thanks for taking the time and effort to put this out there. Like others, I'll be curious to hear your final conclusions once you've had a chance further test the durability and reliability of the scope. If reasonably robust, given all else, it may be the next purchase.

[@nameUnknownUser]

Fantastic video dude. VERY informative and useful. I appreciate that you go into the nitty, gritty details about the scope. Too often youtuber's waste time talking about useless aspects of optics or gear, but I don't see you falling for that same trap.

[@chrisengstrom8247]

Great review as always and this looks like an excellent scope

[@Redacted-Information]

I have had this scope for a year and a half and absolutely Love it for my Favorite Kidd 22LR

[@6spdkeg]

Nice! Very useable on many setups

[@john-michaelself9429]

Subscribed! I can usually find something to pick apart on every YT optic review(er) I watch. Just want to say I think you did an excellent job. Knowledgable, seemingly un-biased, and - this sounds weird - but you have the right "voice" for giving the viewer a feeling of confidence that you know what you are talking about. Again, excellent work....I look forward to adding your reviews to my "go-to" list when I need new optics.

[@mavrikmavrik3032]

I bought one, I love it! The 2x is usable, especially with the circle reticle, and the 12x is very, very clear. No problem at all shooting sub MOA groups at 100 yards.

[@luke928]

You make by far the best optic videos. Your breakdown of the 2-12 optics have helped me make my decision for the Sig Cross. I was going with Swamp Fox, but you just sold this

[@jordanr8312]

I run this on my Sig Cross and it's done a great job on shots out to 535 yards so far. I hope you enjoy it.

[@C42WatChe42C]

Not all heros wear capes. Love your videos!

[@ssmac8746]

awesome review! Been looking for a First Person RePew on the Holosun HE530C/G models

[@TeamKLTNT]

same!!!

[@mattgrones4103]

Great review thanks for putting this together. I recently put this on an ar and have been trying to get used to it. Only complaint is that at max zoom the center dot seems big. I know it’s a ffp but my other ffp scopes have a much smaller dot.

[@rjoshm20]

Nice eco-drive, wearing my blue dial version as I watch this excellent review. Cheers!

[@KB_86]

I really really really wish Athlon would make a high end version of this scope. A 2-12 cronus would be great! Like you mentioned at the end of the video. I would definitely pay 1,500 for a very nice version of this scope! PLEASE ATHLON MAKE IT HAPPEN

[@CDOES]

HERE HERE!

[@richardphelan5402]

Topclass review as usual,I bought an arken SH4 Gen 11 4-16 after your detailed review of it.i just can't understand how the element boys haven't sent you 1 of there optics for you to do your magic with.i have to say I tink element scopes are savage for the money but im sure you could get alot more out of them than me,im sure Shane from element would be glad of the results if he sent you 1.i see they have just launched a new affordable range inthe new helix with 2 new reticles, just saying................ Keep up the good work,Richie from Ireland 🇮🇪.

[@p47rr]

I bought one two years ago. Fits my PTR G3 clone perfect. It’s as if it was made for this rifle. It’s short enough to clear the charging handle. The front bell is also small so again more clearance. Plus if you pair it with Vortex Pro Series high scope rings you can actually use your iron sights. (They have a cut out in the center.) The glass is excellent for the price. I spent hours and hours searching for the right scope that would fit. Your typical LPVO will work. But wanted something with a little more magnification. If you have a Cetme C308 or a PTR 91 this is the scope your looking for.

[@CDOES]

Just about perfect. Have you had any problems with it not holding up to your G3 recoil?

[@p47rr]

No problems so far. I have a Bill Springfield buffer. It reduces recoil by 40%. He actually built my rifle from a Cetme parts kit. PTR receiver and heavy eighteen inch barrel. PRS stock and m-lok handguard.

[@brandongnarlow9162]

Thank you. I have a ptr 91 a3s. Getting a good scope that clears the charging handle was a big factor for me.

[@m07c]

A comparo with the credo you sent back to trij would be cool. It's credo, athlon, old vortex, and pa glx it seems in this form factor right now . Thanks for the vid

[@JumboJimmy85]

I'd been looking at this one for a while and your video sold me. I was really looking at the Kentucky Long but your gripes about the turrets not resetting completely bugged me. Really looking forward to putting this on my new 16" AR. Thanks for all you do! Top tier content and well thought out reviews.

[@CDOES]

Happy to help mate! I hope you enjoy it

[@Quality_Guru]

Did you end up getting this scope. Is it too heavy on the 16" AR as I am looking at something similar.

[@gnashyathuur8513]

Thank you for your thorough and useful review. :) I've been thinking about getting one of these for my .30-30 lever action hunting rifle. It's precise enough with 160gr Hornady FTX projectiles pushed by LeverEvolution powder that it deserves good glass so I can take advantage of its 400yd effective range, but for whatever reason a lot of the more expensive options are lacking in some factor, in such a way that the Athlon manages to be 90% as good at everything they do while having everything I want, for a much cheaper price point. With this scope being so cheap, I can get it at an accessible price point while I save up to get the Nightforce ATACR 4-16 I want for my 18" 5.56 DMR, so I'm thinking that may be the most optimal way to spend my money for the time being. Now I just have to figure out if I need to use 0.9" or 1.0" height rings (Vortex Pro low and medium, respectively) for the front bell to clear the barrel. I think with the low I'll be okay, but I'm not entirely sure.

[@tymarkham3931]

Great video brother thanks for the information it helps us too make the best decision on paying our hard earned money!😊

[@markn4526]

I'm trying to catch up on all your excellent reviews and comparisons of the scopes I'm interested in purchasing. Plus, your reviews are so well-done and just so interesting to watch in and of themselves! I started off settling on the Swampfox Arrowhead in 1-8X or 1-10X which turned me on to Swampfox as a brand. However, I really don't have the use for a true LPVO with 1x magnification even though you've said that you could view it as a MPVO. That made me lean toward the Swampfox Kentucky Long 2-12X44 as it checked all the boxes for what I needed. The turret indexing issue bothered me though and not having off stops between the illumination settings seems like an oversight. This brings me to this Athlon Helos BTR II 2-12X42 which seems to check all the boxes even harder than the Kentucky Long and apparently has none of its shortcomings. I think I even like the Helos' reticle more because it looks like it'd be more useable at lower magnification than the Kentucky's. That Arrowhead is still something special though. I think that's pretty much where you land on all of this.

[@Quality_Guru]

I have to say that C_Does is one of the best reviewers of optics. He certainly took this optic through its paces. I was anxiously awaiting this review prior to making a purchasing decision for this specific scope. While I realize this is an exceptional scope, I can’t get past the fact that the reticle is off. This is like buying a ruler or measuring tape whose measurements are off. If Athlon takes pride in being an American company, then they need to go back and fix this. Otherwise they might as well put 49 stars and 12 1/2 stripes on their flag.

[@CDOES]

Lmao! I cant say I disagree with you one bit. Its unfotunate. However the true unfortunate realization is that Ive seen far more expensive scopes perform not too far off from this.

[@Quality_Guru]

@@CDOES Your are the best. I'm so disappointed as I had this scope on the short list. Perhaps the new Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope Gen IV (w/ the Illuminated ACSS Nova Fiber Wire Reticle) will do better.

[@CDOES]

@@Quality_Guru repew coming soon! It's very impressive. But had one minor flaw

[@jamesharding3459]

I must have missed the comment, what’s the issue with the reticle?

[@MDI_1981]

@@jamesharding3459 The reticle isn't perfectly aligned with the target (which is perfectly measured) at 100 yards - or whatever distance he has the scope. It's true to itself - and consistent with itself. But basically when you click .1 mil it is moving ever so slightly more than .1 mil. As if it was calibrated a little off - in this example. Somebody correct me if I am wrong. It's possible that the distance between the scope and the target is slightly off. But unlikely given C_Does seems to be a pro at doing these reviews.

[@mikeTyson329]

You mentioned it’d be a good option on a light, agile handling 5.56. Well that’s exactly what I’m about to put this on. I have a 16” BCM with a 13” mlok hand gaurd and enhanced light weight barrel. I’ve had the rifle over a year with just irons bc I wasn’t sure what optic I wanted to use on it. I’m hoping the elw barrel won’t prohibit me too much at longer range. We might be crazy, but it seems like a good combo to me. Save the weight on the gun for some additional weight up top. An overall handy, yet effective at varying distance rifle is what I’m hoping is in store. Wish me luck. Keep up the good work. You have great content and really do a thorough job.

[@northman77]

I like this scope. Not perfect but very nice and overkill on top of a 22lr bolt action. It's mostly a practice setup for bigger boom boom but I use it for hunting grouse and hare from time to time. I agree with everything you said in the review!

[@CDOES]

Pew Pew! Fantastic to hear mate

[@fastbanshee1999]

Impatiently waiting for the Mark 5hd 2-10 review

[@brantingram]

I only wish u could arrange the brands of scopes to their own Playlist so easier to find reviews of scopes by brands . I 3njoy your videos , but as your channel grows with more videos gets hard to find certain reviews I'm searching for or might be interested in

[@Kurorahk]

You really have gotten me into MVPO's and Athlon itself, I am looking at something for hunting slapped on my G3 clone. And 2-12 feels right in the use case range I have, I like FFP's over SFP optics so again another point in favor of an Athlon or a Swampfox which are the two I'm down to, either this or the Kentucky by Swampfox.

[@CDOES]

They are very versatile mag ranges. It served me great at west point. I have no doubts about it's functionality at Woodland being anything less than perfect. My only wonder will be longevity. But I have been running it hard and so far, so good.

[@ryank0351]

Imo. You are THE guy for optics review

[@Blood_Eagel]

I have the Ahtlon 2-12 on my do all rifel a Savage predator in 308win. I really like the 2-12 but it is crazy expensive her in Sweden 900$. I also took 8 months too get. And now I look at the Element optic in 2-16x50 but it’s a second focal plane optic… I think i going too keep the Ahtlon and focus on baying an Ar-15 in 5.56 and 9mm

[@meejmuas8686]

Just bought this through your review. Excited to get this on my .308 AR10

[@illestdomer2005]

How do you like it? I am trying to decide what to put on my Sabre PA-10a1 16”. I currently have a Bravo5 prism on there but want/need more magnification.

[@jordannorton1795]

@@illestdomer2005 Literally in the exact same position…Sabre 10A1 got in last week and I’ve got a serious case of analysis paralysis at this point. Ready to just make a decision.

[@illestdomer2005]

@@jordannorton1795 I ended up buying a Vudu 1-10. It’s pretty awesome, but it took me forever to pull the trigger bc 💰

[@dennisholle1005]

Great Review! Have your looked at Tract in their similar products?

[@shark_actual]

Thinking about picking this up for my "Mock12" build to be honest; I have a 4-16x on it now, but that feels like way more magnification than I need. Excellent review as always dude!

[@CDOES]

Thanks mate. If it can stay in one piece its one of the better options out there.

[@000NULL]

Using an offset RDO, a primary scope can be used with 4x at the LOW end. If you have an RDO, there's no reason to take a LVPO or MPVO down past 3x, there is no reason to try to take MPVO's down to 1-2x. I would gladly sacrifice the low end for improvements on any part of the optic.

[@Fister_of_Muppets]

I recently bought this scope, and I run an offset RDO. Not because 2x isn't usable, but because I wouldn't want to have my fly unzipped at 6x-12x and then have to quickly take a shot at 1x. I am quickly falling in love with this optic, glass is very good for its price range.

[@e7tegt503]

I’ve been eying this for my 16” larue spr. Wasn’t sure if it was a enough glass for such an accurate rifle. I’m gonna go for it. Thanks for the timely review.

[@CDOES]

Godspeed. Let me know how it works out for you!

[@APSupernary]

End up using this 2-12 on your 16"? Simply curious if it worked out well. Thanks!

[@e7tegt503]

@@APSupernary No I actually just got an Athlon ares etr 3-18 35% off from a major online retailer. Idk if I can post dealer names or not. Just google it. I shoot groups with that rifle so the 1 moa center dot was a detractor for me. But I have no doubt it’s a good scope.

[@e7tegt503]

@@APSupernary Ended up with a 3-18 ares etr. It’s amazing. Especially under $600 on sale.

[@APSupernary]

@@e7tegt503 thanks for the feedback! Great timing, actually just snagged the 2-12 to try out. Glad that Ares worked well!

[@aksyoutube9082]

Thank you. This is the review I’ve been needing to make a purchase one one. I’ve been wanting another Nightforce for my 16” 223W but I can’t swing a $2500 optic anytime soon. I need something now that I can upgrade later if need be. Great review. Thank you

[@CDOES]

Buy this and enjoy the piss out of it like I have. You won't be disappointed

[@aksyoutube9082]

That’s the plan! Thanks again!

[@aksyoutube9082]

Is there any chance you still have the second scope and want to sell it? It seems to be impossible to find these scopes in Mils right now. Either that or I’m stuck with MOA or a different scope.

[@CDOES]

@@aksyoutube9082 unfortunately I sold it to a good friend shortly after. Good luck on your journey. I feel the reason they are hard to find is my fault

[@aksyoutube9082]

Haha, thank you. I would not be surprised if that was the case. I fell for the old Optics Planet “in stock” and ordered it to find out it’s actually back ordered for months. Tried searching everywhere else. I really do love what I’m seeing with this optic so I might just buy an MOA version for now. I love the reticle on the MIL version because it’s so similar to the DMX reticle on my NX8 1-8. Thanks again for the content! Have a good one!

[@ianguy447]

I've got one of these in a Warne XSkel mount, going on a Ruger American Predator in .223 which I'm having cut down to be a 14.5 P&W suppressor host (do as I say and not as I do - don't P&W YHM QD muzzle devices). I'm extremely excited to get the rifle back from the gunsmith and to get some trigger time looking through this scope!

[@CDOES]

That'll be a really slick setup man. Color me jealous!

[@ianguy447]

@@CDOES Thanks! You kind of got me motivated after your Ruger American video. I'll try to post pics once everything is said and done :)

[@CDOES]

@@ianguy447 💪 awesome! Lmk how it works out for you

[@CaveWyatt]

I wish there was a place nearby I could see one of these. It will be hard pressed to beat out my current favorite and “Nikon replacement”, the Crimson Trace Hardline 2-12x42 Mil w/MR1 reticle. I swear CT bought the Nikon plans and Philippine factory space Nikon had; exact (near as I can tell) dimensions as my MTactical 3x12x42 SF but improved glass and ergonomics, as you’d expect from a Gen 3 or so of the MTac. I wasted $700+ on a Primary Arms Glx 2.5-10x scope but VERY happy with the $300+ CT and I’ll have to try others in the lineup. It’s like looking through a Nikon, bright and clear, where my general rule I forgot due to the hype surrounding the PA is, “Never buy PA or Vortex optics”. Both have an odd, cramped sight picture (to me, I understand that) and I’ve never been happy with them. Anyway, bring it, Athlon! Let’s see what you’ve got.

[@alexanderb5644]

"I am on the quest to find the best mpvo" MUSIC TO MY EARS & JUST THE MAN FOR THE JOB

[@roncterry]

I have one of these on my 16” SPRish build. So far I am liking it quite a bit. I think my biggest gripe though is the size of the center dot in the reticle. It’s just a bit too large. Cut its diameter in half and it would be just about right. Not a deal breaker but it makes it a little more difficult when trying to make precise shots on small targets at longer distances.

[@illestdomer2005]

Thickness or size? Honestly, I think therein lies the “trouble” with an FFP reticle: optimize it for max zoom, and it’s useless on lowest power or vice versa.

[@roncterry]

Honestly the reticle in this scope is awesome. It is only a 6x zoom so doesn’t suffer from the too small at low zoom/to large at max zoom problem like to see in 10x, and to some extent 8x, zoom range optics. The BDC/Mil tree is visible and usable starting around 4x where you actually start needing it (in fact it’s visible/usable at 2x if you want). The T style stadia lines and the larger center circle draw your eye to the center at low zoom. It’s just the center dot is 3 mil/1 MOA and covers up a lot of the center bulls eye of your target when trying to be very precise. If the center dot was the size of the dots in the mil dot tree it would be better. It’s not a deal breaker at all though because for its intended use in an SPR role where you want fast and easy target aqusition it works just fine.

[@abell4785]

This is a great scope I wish this came in SFP. I was going between this scope the Nightforce SVT and the Vortex 2-10.

[@hansblitz7770]

It does come in sfp.

[@jordanchaffee8177]

Reticle is VERY different between MIL and MOA. I bought this in MOA, and I hate it. The Reticle in the center is ridiculously thick, and obscures too much when at higher magnifications. The Reticle on the MIL looks way better.

[@CDOES]

Mil is the way. Embrace the new.

[@melechc7267]

I got the MOA also mounted on Bergara BMR .22 LR. It's working great in that application for sub 100 yard headshots on tree rats.

[@Zrod0964]

That giant center dot is the only thing keeping me from snapping one of these up for my 18” spr build.

[@slick4415]

Is your spr sub moa?

[@Zrod0964]

@@slick4415 just barely with mk262, but it’s more of a mental thing for me than a con for this scope. I can only seem to shoot well with a fine crosshair or sub-moa center dot. I think .5 moa works best for me but again it’s personal preference.

[@smittywerbenjagermanjensen6680]

My favorite MPVO so far is the eotech vudu 2.5-10x44 Unfortunately they are discontinued

[@navyman8903]

Looks good for a Chinese optic. I don't think I would ever get one, but it is a solid performer so far.

[@ibrahimc27810]

Big fan of your channel . I have a 5-25 viper pst 2 , and was looking for the 3-15 version (mainly for hunting , yes I know it’s heavy but that’s not a big factor for me considering where I hunt ) I am wondering how the helos compares to the 3-15 gen 2

[@MyLonewolf25]

im loving seeing more MPVOs on the market getting attention. personally im more of a fan on the 3-15/3-18 stuff. id kill to see a good 2-16 or a light weight 3-16 as i feel thats a better compromise over a 2-12 or 2-10 the difference between 2x and 3x for me isnt as much of a drag on the low end as the gain for that 16x or 18x is for me at those much longer ranges on a dmr/spr. i just feel that as its not a 1x or red dot the speed difference's between 2x and 3x just doesnt change (how many 3-9s do we see on hunting guns already that barely get used past 100m anyway). id love to see a very light 4-16 on a hunting gun

[@CDOES]

You and me both

[@heyhayhay247]

The Primary Arms GLx 4-16 is pretty light for what it offers at 23oz compared to the 30oz 3-18.

[@CDOES]

@@heyhayhay247 I have a 3-18 I'm finishing up with. I am going to try and swap it out with the 4-16

[@heyhayhay247]

@@CDOES I love the idea of a 3-18, but it's so hard to find a good tactical scope that isn't a complete pig

[@CDOES]

@@heyhayhay247 the optika6 is about as close as I've found. Some out on the market right now are optioned well. But don't really light my pants on fire.

[@CacheCropp]

I am also seeking the best MPVO and I have almost the exact same criteria as you. So thank you for these great reviews and comparisons. However, I really prefer to NOT buy Chinesium products. I’d really like to see how the PST 2-12, NF 2.5-10, Credo 2-10 compare. Would consider the Leupold 2-10 but only on the used market. I’ll add that I have an Athlon 1-4.5 for Highpower shooting and have no complaints with Athlon, but after seeing the awesome customer support from Vortex, NF and Leupold, I believe they deserve priority.

[@ethanladymon6760]

Not long after this scope came out, I got the MOA version and I have regretted it slightly due to the reticle. The MOA version is a BDC with wind holds and not just an MOA tree and circle. That aside, I love it on my SPR/predator hunting rifle. I am kicking around the idea of getting another one in MILS. The form factor is nice.

[@ganthrithor]

Funny you mention the Steyr Scout: I've got one myself and have been thinking long and hard about what optic to put on it. I bought a cheap Vortex long-eye-relief, variable magnification "Scout" scope when I bought the rifle just to see if I'd like it, but that thing has a featureless reticle and the FOV of a drinking straw. It's usefulness to weight ratio is also horrible and obviously that weight hanging out at the front of the gun only makes things worse. Anyway: I've mostly been looking at LPVOs, but it's been difficult to choose-- it seems like every optic has its shortcomings. I've been interested by the FFP Primary Arms SLx 1-6, the PLx compact 1-8, and you've had some positive reviews of a couple of SFP options as well (IIRC there was a Sig one you really liked which had been available for like $250 but is now $400-something that looked OK). I'm also keen to see what you think of the upcoming Primary Arms 5x prisms (although I think a Prism would require a creative mounting solution given the Steyr's lack of continuous rail up top). I'm curious what you'd put on your Scout if you were outfitting it in 2023? This looks like a really solid option if you can live without a 1x-- as much as I think it would be fun to work on closer-range snap-shooting with the bolt-action, having done a bit of timed/competitive, varied shooting: do you think a proper 1x is a real necessity for that kind of work, or can you make a 2x work just fine?

[@olovikka]

I have Steyr Scout and it has had many scopes in it over the years. Currently a "bit" overkill S&B PMII 5-25x56 with off axis red dot. Not too heavy. I wish that some one would make good quality scout scopes but this Athlon is kind of in sweet spot what comes to magnification range.

[@Mryodamiles]

You should make a video on scopes with best eye box (at different magnification powers/budget point). I got 1-10x Swampfox and was not super happy with the eye box.

[@stevennewman4778]

If you’re speaking of exit pupil, it’s objective/magnification. 24/10 = 2.4. That’s pretty small and why I don’t own an lpvo greater than 6x magnification. On a 1-6x24, at 6x the exit pupil is 4mm and quite forgiving. For me I want at least 30mm objective on a scope with max 10x magnification.

[@markhahn8288]

Thanks for a great review, I ordered one of the MIL versions. What target/distance and setup are you using to verify tracking? Would like to check mine as well.

[@scotian8535]

Which do you like more between this and the PA GLX 2.5-10? And why did that review video disappear? It was so promising.

[@CYOTsNiper]

I’m really looking at this scope to replace my vortex diamond tactical on my dedicated suppressed coyote hunting AR! I would like to drop my red dot on a 45 degree mount for sudden close in shots when hunting thicker cover!

[@bandit3072]

I took my PA 2.5 ×10 Off and moved to this optic. I'm liking it more and more!

[@jorywinward212]

I've been between this scope and the PA, would you say the athlon is better and why?

[@scott2228]

I’d be interested to know why as well.

[@357magnole8]

Really wish these would be getting stocked. They are oos everywhere

[@Kross8761]

Still early in my watching through the video, and the reticle etching leaves something to be desired, but ultimately the use case this optic fits best also isn't super focused on extreme precision. Its focus is versatility and speed with the capability of moderate precision out to 600-800 meters. If I were going to try to stretch further id definitely want more magnification. So i guess its like you e already said multiple times, what youre getting vs what youre paying for is still surprisingly good, but certainly not perfect.

[@theimplication2581]

I was too distracted by the Seiko with the Bond strap to pay attention to the unboxing.

[@SnapD24]

So I bought this scope, used and rattle canned, for a cheap 6 ARC project I have. I really didn't expect it to look as good as the video. The part that weirds me out is the parallax adjustment. It's got me wondering if it's broken because it doesn't seem to change much. The image send clear but I expect some IST if the image to get real fuzzy somewhere in the field of depth.

[@jimjamm9318]

Did you sort it out? A few ppl have sent them back for replacement with this issue

[@awsomedude9111]

Really like the idea of 2-12x 2-15x 2-18x optics. There was only a few on optics planet and I saw this one yesterday. This is really only if your able to get a lot more magnification by a factor of 8-10x. 2-12x would be worse than a 1-6/8x. Might as well get a 2.5-20x.

[@CntBckt]

Yo C, have you seen the new coming from GPO? It's an 8x from their Spectra line, with a 1.6-13x range and parallax adjustment down to 10 yds! If the reticle options and street price are on, this may be the golden ticket.

[@PNWredneck]

If only it weighed a little less… I almost bought this for my all around hunting scope last year but ended up getting the leupold vx5hd 3-15x44. Still think this would be a great scope if I ever build a 6.5 grendel upper, would love to compare these 2 scopes sxs

[@CDOES]

For super light weight then yeah. For a 6.tG I think it'll be slick!

[@MikeSuma831]

Was looking for an optic for a 20" spr build. I think I found it.

[@RogerLoUSPSA]

hey @CDOES , would you prefer this or the vortex pst 2-10? and is this still the one you'd pick around this budget range? or do you have a new favorite?

[@trydentnation]

Yes!!!!!!!

[@Dogsoldier12B]

I have been waiting for a 2-10x in lpvo size and Leupold just dropped one at Shot. However, it's $1.7-$2,200 not exactly cost effective. I still need gas mask for the fam. This optic seems good for a 14.5 at a good price and it's not gigantic.

[@p51mustang24]

Good scope for an SPR/DMR but could also be a decent hunting scope. If you are going to run an offset red dot, scopes in the 3-9x, 4-12x, and 3-15x, etc ranges should be in consideration. Lower multiplier should mean the full range gets better image quality for the same price point. Not that 6x is a lot to ask.

[@CDOES]

Correct on all accounts. It really is a jack of all trades.

[@commonsense5709]

Thank you for another great review. I'd suggest trying out the Centerpoint PLT 3-12x44 30mm SFP side focus that can be found for around $70 delivered from some e bay sellers. It's probably the only Centerpoint scope that's actually worth buying. It's unlike the typical crappy sub $100 Chinese made scopes you see and punches well above it's price point. I wanted a little more magnification than my 3-9x33 Leupold VX Freedom and a buddy had one of these cheap Centerpoint 30mm side focus scope and I was amazed how nice it was for only $70 delivered. The reticle looks similar to the Vortex Crossfire 2 SFP BDC. It blew away a lot of $100 and under scopes I've seen and I think it actually retails for around $150-$200. It comes in a clear plastic clamshell and includes Picatinny rings that appear to be better than average for freebies.

[@linkchen8245]

How do you think the warranty of the center point compare to Athlon?

[@commonsense5709]

@@linkchen8245 The Centerpoint has a lifetime warranty which I didn't need to use yet.

[@EpsteinNooseSolutions781]

I wish Vortex Razor, or nightforce made a FFP 2-12 scope with a good mil reticle. I just came across a black hound 2-12 ffp for $1300 and has Japanese glass. I cannot find any videos on it. Looks like it’s a new optic

[@omikurita]

I have a DD5v4, definitely looking for something like this Athlon. What mount would you recommend?

[@bghiggy]

Fuck yeah, time to validate my purchase

[@Austin_P]

Wondering when the SLX nova video will be released? I don’t have an lpvo yet and I can get a great deal on the preorder. Wondering if you think it’s worth it. Figured I’d get a really good mount for it and upgrade in the future to a trijicon TR25 if the new SLX is good.

[@PNWredneck]

Take a gamble. It looks solid, I’m sure you could quickly resell it if you were dissatisfied

[@VB6000.]

I’m curious what you would say about Vector Optics Continental X8 2-16X44 SFP MPVO which uses German Schott ED glass with zero set turrets.

[@iamnitrox]

I just bought a PA GLX 2-10 and hope I didn't waste money

[@marcusheath1733]

Any chance you could please do the new steiner t6xi 3-18x56mm. Suppose to be much better than the T5xi!

[@johns14m]

I'm in the market for a 2-10~2-12ish mpvo. The only thing stopping me from buying this optic is the reticle. I wish it had a more standard MOA/Christmas tree instead of the BDC. For that reason I'm leaning towards the swampfox.

[@CDOES]

Different strokes for different folks. I really enjoy this reticle. And it works well for quick acquisition

[@johns14m]

@@CDOES the host is a 300 blackout bolt action "pistol" that will exclusively see subsonics. The BDC is obviously workable with goofy ranges, but far from optimal. I'd much rather have a straight MOA reticle for my dumbass use case haha. I keep bumping my budget, but finding something in the 2-10~12ish range with the features/performance I want has been frustrating

[@m07c]

As a gen 1 viper 2-10 owner , going through this same search with you . Ultimately, when all is compared said and done , how is the answer not the 3-18 Mark5?

[@randomidiot8142]

Lucky me, I just bought one of these a month or two ago. Hunter/quasi tactical, wanted something that worked with my AR for mostly hunting but capable of being decent for shooting steel at mid range. The sorta acss + mil tree seems like a good combo. Little comment on the reticle/tracking. Maybe it's a cope. You decide. It's a 12x scope with a sorta fat center dot. Just thinking about what this could be used on, how many rifle/cartridge combos are shooting past 1k before you dial up 10 mils? Can you the shooter determine that a .2 mil difference at over 1k was your scope or would you be more likely to assume environmentals or ammo was the more likely culprit to hitting 2% high? It's not ideal but it's 500$ and probably going on guns shooting ammo in a similar price range.

[@illestdomer2005]

Good point. Or in my case, the operator 😂🙃

[@Wlvrtnjm]

My only issue with Athlon is, if you paint your scope, it voids the warranty. I wrapped mine with camouflage tape.

[@MDI_1981]

If the price were the same between this athlon and the trijicon credo 2-10 you got replaced, which would you take?

[@trojan115gw8]

Could you review the primary arms GLx 2.5-10?

[@GMRVC1]

@cdoes Any update on the Athlon 2-12 ? How has it held up so far ?

[@liquidsteel]

HAVE you checked out the Sightron SVIII 5x40 with ED GLASS ???

[@chris.t1629]

How do you think the SwampFox Warhawk 2-10x44 would compare to this? I see the Warhawk is almost 30oz, but what do you think is more preferable about 34mm compared to 30mm MPVOs?

[@robbywoolums9071]

C, get out of my head. How else would you know I was interested in this scope? The timing is pretty funny as I’ve look at this scope multiple times on Eurooptic numerous times recently.

[@jcdezubiria1249]

How about the athlon ares HD 2.5-15?? There aren’t any good reviews on it. Is it worth the price and weight?

[@clartro]

What would you recommend for an MPVO in FFP around 1K or less? I like the specs on the pst gen 2 but not a vortex guy. But I could be persuaded lol why no gen 2 just gen 1 review for the vortex?

[@jonathane8585]

@C_Does Considering the turrets on the SwampFox Kentucky Long has been fixed, and if able to acquire the Kentucky long for $155 less than the Helos ($375 vs $529), would you still consider this Helos vs the Kentucky Long?

[@JGoodZX6R]

Received a Kentucky long a couple months ago. Loved the RECCE MIL reticle, but the turrets still had the same issue of falling between the zero line. Sent it back.

[@dansgarage4572]

Would you be interested in reviewing the Athalon Ares ETR 1-10x FFP?

[@Mr556man]

I really like Athlon optics, except for the weight. Their 4-20 is excellent.

[@steveapplegarth4577]

question, putting the side focus issue aside, does the credo 2-10 have better glass than this helos

[@brandongriffin2930]

This scope or the swampfox 2-12 about to buy one?

[@ronaldhendricks3876]

Is this reticle in mils? Or is it one of those caliber specific “BDC” style reticles?

[@hidesinlonggrass3229]

Are you gonna use this at the next woods match...?

[@rkwjunior2298]

Like to see a review of a Maven RS series scope.

[@CDOES]

Funny you mention that. That might be happening soon.

[@rkwjunior2298]

@CDOES I'm tied between the Maven RS-1 and the NX8 2.5-20. But I dont want to spend almost 2k$. Another one to look at is the Tact Toric 2.5-15x44.

[@50shadesofcerakote]

How accurate would you say the BDC is for something like an 18" 5.56 platform?

[@lecherojr]

@C_DOES I’m back in the market for an MPVO, I’ve recently been looking at the offerings from Leica and March vs the Leupold MK5 3-18. Any chance you can get your hands on the Leica Fortis 2-12 or the March 1.5-15?

[@CDOES]

The Leica would be sick. I had reached out to March about their new 1.5-15. They don't have any loaners yet to send out for testing. But I am on the list