The Athlon ARGOS BTR GEN2 6-24×50 scope promises high-end performance at an attractive price point, targeting budget-conscious long-range shooters and competitive precision rifle enthusiasts. But does it deliver on its promises? We spent months putting this scope through its paces on various rimfire rifles, and here’s our verdict.
First Impressions
Right out of the box, the ARGOS BTR GEN2 scope impressed with its solid construction. The 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube feels robust and inspires confidence. The included flip-up lens covers and sunshade are a nice touch, protecting the scope from the elements. While not the lightest scope on the market (weighing in at 30.3 oz), it balances well on most rifles.
Optical Performance
The heart of any scope is its optics, and the ARGOS BTR GEN2 delivers surprisingly well. The Argon-purged and XPL-coated lenses provide a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions. While not quite on par with Athlon’s flagship scopes, the edge-to-edge clarity is impressive, and chromatic aberration is minimal. At higher magnifications (20x+), some image softness is noticeable, but it’s manageable for most rimfire hunting and target shooting applications.
Reticle and Illumination
The scope comes in two reticle options: the APRLR2 FFP and the APMR FFP. Both are first focal plane (FFP) designs, meaning the reticle size changes with magnification, allowing for precise holdovers at any zoom level. The APRLR2 offers a Christmas tree-style design with MIL-based ranging hash marks, while the APMR features a more minimalist MOA-based design. The illumination system provides eleven brightness levels, catering to various lighting conditions and sufficient for most shooting scenarios.
Features and Functionality
The ARGOS BTR GEN2 boasts features typically found on more expensive scopes. The zero-stop system allows you to quickly return to your zero after making adjustments, while the exposed, capped turrets offer tactile clicks for precise windage and elevation adjustments. We did a box test to validate that the turrets and zero stop are precise and reliable. The side parallax adjustment is smooth and easy to use, and the included throw lever provides quick magnification changes. One notable omission is a magnification throw lever, which some users might find inconvenient for quick adjustments.
Durability and Reliability
The scope is argon-purged for water and fogproofing, and the XPL coating protects the lenses from scratches, oil, and dust. We subjected it to various weather conditions on various types of rimfire rifles, and it has held up admirably. It has now found a home on a Savage B17 HMR along with a Banish22 suppressor as a potent long-range hunting rig for eradicating small vermin.
Value for Money
This is where the ARGOS BTR GEN2 really shines. Compared to high-end scopes offering similar features, its price tag is significantly lower, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters. This is one of the least expensive scopes that includes a zero-stop system. While it might not offer the absolute best optical performance, the value proposition is undeniable.
Overall
The Athlon ARGOS BTR GEN2 6-24×50 scope is a solid performer for the price. It offers impressive optical quality, essential features for long-range shooting, and a durable build, making it a compelling option for budget-minded precision rifle enthusiasts and NRL Base Class competition. However, if absolute top-tier optical performance is your priority regardless of price, you might check out some of Athlon’s higher-end scopes such as the Midas or Cronus series.
Features
- Budget-friendly price
- Impressive optical performance
- FFP reticle options
- Zero-stop system
- Exposed, target turrets
- Side parallax adjustment
- Durable construction
- Argon-purged and XPL-coated
Final Verdict
The Athlon ARGOS BTR GEN2 6-24×50 scope is a strong contender in the budget long-range scope category. It offers excellent value for money and delivers more than enough performance for most recreational and long-range rimfire shooters. If you’re looking for a reliable scope that won’t break the bank, the ARGOS BTR GEN2 is definitely worth considering. Check prices and availability on Amazon.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Magnification: 6x to 24x adjustable
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Reticle: APRLR2 Mil
- Field of View: 16.7-4.5 ft @100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
- Parallax Adjustment: Side focus/parallax adjustment 10 yards-Infinity
- Turret Style: Exposed turrets with elevation and windage adjustments
- Turret Adjustment: 1/10 MIL or ¼ MOA
- Zero-Stop: Yes
- Length: 14.1 inches
- Weight: 30.3 oz.
- Illumination: Red
- Elevation Range: 32 MIL-108 MOA
- Reticle Position: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Cost: $429 (MSRP)
- Website: athlonoptics.com
