This is the only Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 review you’ll have to read.
In fact:
I’ve owned this scope for over 11 months now and have hand-tested everything, including zeroing, accuracy, reticle, durability, glass quality, and more.
By the end of this review, you’ll know if the Athlon Argos BTR rifle scope is for you.
Let’s get started!
Why should you trust me?
I actually bought the Athlon Argos BTR from my own money and tested it.
When I searched the market for a reliable, pocket-sparing long-range scope, I was bombarded with a list of cheap scopes.
So after talking to a couple of folks I met at a long-range shooting event, I hesitantly decided to buy the Argos BTR 6-24×50.
Once it came in, I hand-tested everything there is to the scope: glass clarity, reticle performance, tracking, turrets, durability, and every advanced scope feature.
I left no stone unturned.
What you see below is the result of months of testing and research.
Speaking of results, Athlon Optics did not sponsor this review. In fact, I don’t accept sponsorships or advertising on my site.
That means:
What you read here is my honest review of the Argos BTR. I reveal everything from the ugly to the good.
So with that disclaimer out of the way, let’s get started with the Athlon Argos BTR scope review.
Here’s My Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 Review
The Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 is the best long-range optic for under $300.
In fact:
You may have heard people saying the BTR performs like a $1000 optic (like the Burris XTR II and SWFA SS).
But…is that true? Or is that all marketing hype?
Read on to find out…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
For $300, I expected the glass to be mediocre.
Turns out, it was the opposite:
In fact, the glass is very clear and crisp. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to my $2,000 Leupold 6.5 Creedmoor scope:
(Keep in mind, the Leupold Mark 5 costs 5X MORE than the Athlon BTR!)
However, this 1080P clarity gets worse at higher magnifications (18x – 24x). But for a $300 scope, I can’t complain. Moving past the glass, we’re met with Argos BTR reticle:
The APMR MIL reticle.
(Also available in MOA).
Here’s what I liked about it:
First, the reticle is illuminated. This makes it easy to read in bright light, low light, or no light situations. It even comes with an 11 setting brightness knob:
Second, the reticle is etched onto the glass. Meaning, you don’t need the illumination or a battery to operate. It’s also more durable and less likely to break than wired reticles.
Finally, it’s a first focal plane riflescope — a feature you usually only see in top dollar scopes. This is sweet for long-distance shooting since holdovers never change no matter what magnification setting you’re on.
Which means:
No more adjustments. No more calculating windage or holdover. Just zoom and boom.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
This is the scope’s biggest con…
It’s 3.3” eye relief.
This can be a bit tight for heavy recoiling calibers. But I’ve had no issues with it. Just be sure to practice good cheek weld.
Also, the eye box is generous. However, it could get a bit tight at higher magnifications (18X – 22X).
Durability
The scope is very durable.
It’s crafted from the same material that Nightforce uses — 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum. It’s also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged.
This makes the scope completely waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
In addition, Athlon applied XPL coating to the lens. This protects it from dirt, grease, sand, and oil.
Which means you can use this scope in virtually any condition.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The turrets are spongy. It moves easily without any resistance. This could lead to over-adjusting. However, there’s an easy solution to this problem:
Re-greasing the turrets.
Here’s how:
First, remove the cap. Then, wipe out all the factory grease (with long cotton swabs and a cleaner). Finally, re-grease it with Halofun Green Slime Lubricant.
Once you’re done, you’ll notice the turrets are way more audible and less mushy. Problem fixed in under 10 minutes 🙂
If you’ve never degreased turrets before, here’s a step-by-step video showing how to do it:
Zeroing is easy. Within 7 shots of getting on paper, I was zeroed. The scope also held zero, despite being dropped twice.
But what about tracking?
I performed a tall target tracking test at 1,000 yards and surprisingly, the Argos BTR tracked true. Turrets proved to be reliable.
Magnification & Parallax
The 6x – 24x magnification is very versatile.
Whether I want to go hunting, pesting, plinking, target shooting, or even long-range shooting, I can do it.
The magnification from 6x – 20x is very clear. But anything above that, it loses some clarity and becomes a bit blurry.
So if you need a high degree of visibility for precision or extreme long-range shooting, you’re going to need a better optic (like the Vortex PST Gen II or Nightforce).
The parallax adjustment knob works like a charm. It’s smooth to turn and accurate.
Mounting & Rings
I have the scope mounted on a GG&G Flt Accucam Mount W/30Mm Rings. It’s very sturdy, easily adjustable, and light-weight.
However, it’s a bit expensive. So I recommend getting the Burris PEPR 30mm Mount. Works just as good.
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If you need some rings, make sure to get some based on the brand and type of gun you’re using. Generally speaking, get 30mm High rings, like these Warne 30mm Matte PA Rings.
- Permanently attaches to base
- Square recoil control key for positive engagement of ring to base
- Rings securely mount around scope using 4 Torx style T-15 socket cap screws, 25 in/lb. Of torque recommended
Also:
If you shoot in sunny conditions, I recommend investing in an Athlon Sunshade. (Size: 50mm). It’ll help reduce glare and sun reflections.
- Reduce Glare And Sun Reflections Off The Objective Lens
- This Black Sunshade Uses A Screw-In Assembly That Attaches Easily
- Country Of Origin: China
Lens caps are included with the scope 🙂
Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 Review: Is it Worth it?
If you’re getting started in long-range shooting, I highly recommend the Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50.
Besides the limiting eye relief and a slight reduction in clarity/brightness at high magnifications, it’s got:
- Great glass
- Durable build
- First Focal Plane
- Dead-on Tracking
- APMR Illuminated Reticle
- Long-range Capabilities (1,200+ yards)
Put another way:
You’re getting all the fancy long-range features at ⅓ of the cost.
It even comes with Athlon’s lifetime warranty. So if anything happens to it, they’ll fix it for free. It’s a solid long-range scope with solid warranty.
- First focal plane reticle stays valid at all power settings allowing you to fully utilize the specially designed reticle that shrinks or grows along with your target as you zoom in or out.
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses gives you better light transmission to bring optimum brightness and true color across the entire light spectrum.
- Reticle etched on the glass that provides excellent backing support for complex reticle design and offers great durability and much higher shock resistance to recoil
Disclosure
You may have noticed there are no ads, popups, or annoying autoplaying videos. That’s because I don’t accept ANY advertising on this site.
In fact:
I don’t allow anyone — including optic manufacturers — to sponsor my reviews. This enables me to write the most honest review without appeasing scope manufacturers.
However, Scopesfield.com is a for-profit website, and it’s your right to know any potential biases that may affect this review.
First, I do earn money on this site through affiliate links. This means, should you choose to purchase something after using my link, I may earn a small commission — typically 2-4%.
I don’t see what you purchase, nor does it affect your price.
In short:
I only get paid if you decide I should. This encourages me to write the most honest and useful review on the internet.
With that said, if you have any questions or concerns about this review, the Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 rifle scope or about rifle scopes in general, let me know in the comments below.
Update: Check out my review on the newest Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50.
Thanks for taking the time to review. I was looking at one on Amazon for about $250. Thought it was too good to be true. Hence I am doing some research about this boy. So far pretty good reviews. Great scope for the money IMO. Thanks again!!
You’re welcome, Rodolfo 🙂
If you do decide to get the scope, feel free to come back and leave a comment with your thoughts on it. Anyhow, thanks for stopping by!
Richard I’ve read your review on the Athlon argos BTR gen 2 6x24x50 … I first must admit I’m newer to scopes … I’m trying to dial my scope in , an could use a little help/ advice on the best way..
Well the best way I’ve found is to purchase a Reddit bullet an put it in the rifle that makes it true and no use in wasting ammo as high as they are these days so I’ve bought a red dot sight bullet for every Rifle I own here in my home even my wife’s rifle as well because she’s also a damn good shot as well
Richard I’ve read your review on the Athlon argos BTR gen 2 6x24x50 … I first must admit I’m newer to scopes … I’m trying to dial my scope in , an could use a little help/ advice on the best way.. I bought my scope about 2 weeks ago , I’ve also just realized that your review was on the gen 1 and mine is the gen 2 , I’m guessing there pretty similar…. thanks ……..
Stick the thing on your rifle at low power setting (1x – 4x) and shoot at paper at 50 yds. IF you are within the target, move out to 100 yards (there’s a whole debate about 50 or 100 yard zero but I use 100 yards). Aim DEAD CENTER with a bipod or gun pillow/weighted bag to stabilize. Shoot again, if you are on paper, move your windage or elevation knobs a few clicks in the direction you think they need to go. Generally, each “click” will be 1/2 MOA, in other words, a half inch at 100 yards. So if you are about (3) three inches low, adjust in the direction of the “UP” arrow on the adjustment for elevation 6 clicks (6 half MOA = 3MOA = 3 inches at 100 yards).
Shoot again, adjust and repeat until you are dead center shooting groups within an inch or two. You are now zeroed.
Personally, I never adjust windage AND elevation at the same time. I get the elevation correct (neither high nor low) then adjust my windage (left and right) separate until I am dead on. Fewer variables means less confusion. Good luck.
Would you pay the higher difference to purchase a Gen2 of this model? Being a beginner I am not sure if it is worth the extra cost.
Thank you for this honest review. After stumbling across your review, I did more research and have come to the conclusion that this model is a great start to my family’s hunting adventures!
Cheers!
Hey Christopher,
Thank you for the compliment — I really appreciate it!
I haven’t tried the Gen 2 yet so I wouldn’t be able to answer your question. But make no mistake:
The BTR Gen 1 is REALLY good — especially for beginners.
Feel free to give it a try and if, for whatever reason, you don’t like it, you could always return it back to Amazon within 30 days.
Or if you have an outdoor sports center next to you, check to see if they have the BTR Gen1 and Gen2 in stock, and ask to look through them. This will ultimately help you decide which one is best for you 🙂
Hi Richard,
Great review and I found it helpful that you reviewed a scope that was purchased out of your own pocket and tried and tested.
Richard what is your opinion on the Bushnell Elite tactical DMR II 3.5-21 x 50 G3i Model: ET36215GI.
Thanks Richard,
Kind regards – Stu
Hey Stu,
I’m glad you found the review helpful 🙂
I haven’t done an in-depth review of the Bushnell Elite DMR II yet, but from the few times I’ve used it, I thought it was a solid scope (especially for the price). The glass is super clear and the turrets track with wonders. The G2 reticle is another level.
Overall: It’s a great high-end long range scope that works like a charm. But at the end of the day, it boils down to your needs and desires.
I’ll be doing an in-depth review of this scope soon.
I hope this helps!
Hi Richard,
Great news thank you, yes I’ve heard good things about it. I’m new to the scope world but I wanted one scope for life so hopefully it won’t take too long to get my head around. Any tips or pointers would be helpful. Do you have a website or an email address?
I look forward to reading your review. Is there any way I can set an alert to get notified when your review is out?
Cheers – Stu ?
Have you decided to settle with the Elite DMR II?
If you’d like my advice with picking a ‘one-time’ scope, then I’d need to know some information like:
1. What’s your intended use?
2. Intended shooting range distance?
3. Budget?
4. Any other specific details like preferred focal plane, reticle, and other features would help a lot.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a newsletter set up, so you won’t be able to receive an alert when the review comes out.
However, when it does, I’ll try to remember and respond to this comment to let you know 🙂
Thanks again Stu!
Hi Richard,
Sorry about the late reply, I ended up purchasing the Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS 2 4.5-30 x 50mm, I haven’t used it yet but I have heard great things about it. Have you used this scope before?
Cheers – Stu
THANK YOU. Great review! I’ve been searching high and dry for a solid scope to get started in long-range shooting. I will go and order one right now to top off my Savage 110 Tactical in 6.5mm Creedmoor!
It’s my absolute pleasure!
Once it comes in and you give it a test run, feel free to come back and let us know what you think about the scope 🙂
Marty, I just bought the exact rifle…Savage 110 Tactical in 6.5 creedmoor. I’ve been seriously considering the Athlon Argos BTR 6x24x50 MOA. Did you order this and if so, are you happy w/ the purchase? You can reply here or send me a quick email @ Chris.kuhlmann@gmail.com
Thank you so much
Hi Richard,
Thanks for the awesome review. I wanted to ask you if you think an AR-10 chambered in 6.5 creedmoor with a 20″ barrel would provide too much recoil for this particular scope.
Again. Thanks for the great review.
Hey there Ian,
Nah, you should be fine 🙂 Thank you for the compliment! I really appreciate it!
Great honest review I own same scope an going to order my 2nd one. I shoot high end pellet guns in field target. His review is spot on. Mine went out of wack on parallax I sent it to athlon they got it on Monday guy who looked at it called me send me a new scope had it by wensday. Good people an good company who stand behind there scopes.
You’re awesome Larry!
I appreciate the compliment. And I appreciate your thoughts on the scope. I couldn’t have agreed more — Athlon Optics is a solid company who stand behind their scopes 🙂
How would this scope work for 50 yd rimfire target shooting? Also considering vortex viper pa 6-20×44 and bushnell nitro sfp 6-24×50. Thanks for the great review!
Definitely should do very well for you, Rich. The best part is with a 6-24, you could go out way further than 50 yards if you wanted to 🙂
Great review. As an Athlon BTR Argos owner, I can say you hit all the points that make this a great scope. My friends and I joke about how we got in the ground floor buying Athlon optics. They produce a top quality, performance product at the best price point.
Thanks Sam! You’re around some good friends then, haha 🙂
We are using this scope on a 6.5 Creedmoor and it is awesome zeroed it at 100 yards then went out to 900 and was on target. My son is wanting to get one now. He is shooting a 300 WSM.
Do you think this scope will hold up to a 300 WSM ?
Hey Mine,
That’s awesome!
Yep, the scope will hold up to a 300 WSM. In fact, the BTR is rated for big magnum cartridges 🙂
I’ve even used it with a .50 BMG. It held its zero and performed flawlessly.
Yes! I’ve been using the Gen 1 version of this scope on my Savage 110 BA Stealth in 300 Win mag since 2017. I have close to 1000 rounds through it and never had any issues. My friend has even been using one on a 7mm Rem mag with the same positive feedback. I did just pick up the new Gen 2 version of this scope though and can say without hesitation that the turrets on the Gen to are far better then the Gen 1. However either one will work great on probably anything you throw it on in my experience.
cual es la diferencia entre la Argos btr gen1 vs la argos btr gen11
I now have both the Gen 1 and Gen 2 models of this scope. If you haven’t tried the new version you’ll certainly want too. The turrets on the Gen 2 are far superior, and have none of the mushy feel that the Gen 1’s had. Very positive clicks, a true zero stop and the numbers line up perfectly as well. Still love my Gen 1, but Athlon did a great job on the updated version. Ill be waiting to hear your updated thoughts on the Gen 2 when you get your hands on one.
Thanks for the review and appreciate the video fix for the turrets. Very helpful. I have the Gen 2 and like it very much but the magnification adjustment is way to stiff to adjust comfortably. Do you know how i can loosen that wheel up to make it lighter/smoother? Do i need any special tool or lube? Thanks!
Hello,
Thanks Rich for the awesome review. A big thank you to the other fellas that commented on their purchasing of Atholon scopes as well.
I took the plunge and ordered one over the weekend and got it in 2 days.
I love it for the money. I grew up with my Dad preaching Redfield and Leuopold. I do own a few Leupys, Burris FF2, and a Monarch. Bushnell elite 3200 with Rainguard. And a couple Nikons.
I got a custom AR10 6.5 Creedmoor being made now that I’m waiting on. I was dead set on purchasing my first Vortex because of a few of my buddies recently acquiring a few Vortex and looking through them.
I saw Atholon come up on a Pennsylvania outdoor forum by a pretty knowledgeable fella but never researched it until your review.
As much as I wanted to try my first Vortex I loved your review and the fact that it saved me a few hundred purchasing the Atholon.
Looking through it now and playing with the knobs IMHO there isn’t a better scope for the money.
I will be purchasing more in the future and might never try Vortex now. I love this scope. I bought the illumunitaed 6-24.
Thanks again,
Jason
Thanks Richard. I bought three scopes, for my .243, 30-06 and 7mm-08. Can’t wait for the weather in Connecticut to brake so I can get out and start shooting them.
thanks for the review….i actually have the scope a couple of weeks ago.
Anyone know what the washers it comes with are for?
Go on YouTube and search gen 1 zero stops you will see it’s a way to add zero stops to the scope. Not the solid feel of a actual zero stop but you will feel it and know your at zero.
Just ordered one can’t wait to get it on my savage 110 tactical 6.5 creed moor . I have been back and forth between the Athlon, vortex and Burris for 3 weeks . Will update after I get it sighted in and a few rounds with it
Just Bought a second hand Gen 1 6-24×50, all works fine, no problem with “mushy” turret adjustment and glass is clear all the way out to x24, haven’t got it on my rifle yet, have to go up to high rings as the focus ring on x 24 contacts the bolt handle when I open the bolt, other than that seems like a great scope, paid £200.
I just bought a 300 wby magnum, I have an Atheon Argos BTR 8-34×50. I’ve been trying to see if the scope can handle the gun