Athlon Optics Comparison Guide: Which Scope is Right for Your Next Australian Hunt?
So, you’ve decided to upgrade your glass, and Athlon Optics has caught your eye. It’s no surprise—Athlon has rapidly become the "disruptor" in the optics world, offering features usually reserved for $3,000+ European scopes at a fraction of the cost.
At XHunter AU, we’ve just stocked the full lineup. But with so many models—Cronus, Ares, Helos, Argos—how do you know which one belongs on your rifle? In this guide, we break down the Athlon hierarchy to help you find the perfect match for the range or the bush.
Athlon Optics: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Cronus G2 UHD | Ares ETR | Helos BTR G2 | Argos BTR G2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glass Quality | UHD (Extra-Low Dispersion) | ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) | Advanced Fully Multi-Coated | Fully Multi-Coated |
| Tube Size | 34mm | 34mm | 30mm / 34mm | 30mm |
| Turrets | Exposed / Zero Stop | Locking / Stainless Steel | Locking | Exposed / Zero Stop |
| Best For | PRS / Extreme Long Range | Pro Hunting & Target | Tactical / Mid-Range Hunt | Entry-Level Precision |
1. The Flagship: Cronus G2 UHD
"The Alpha of the Pack"
If you refuse to compromise, the Cronus G2 is your scope. This is Athlon’s top-tier offering, designed to compete with the world’s most elite optics.
- The Glass: Features UHD (Ultra High Definition) glass that eliminates chromatic aberration, giving you a razor-sharp image even at 1,000+ yards.
- Why Buy It? If you are a competitive PRS shooter or an extreme long-range hunter in the Australian outback, the Cronus provides the clarity and mechanical tracking reliability you need.
2. The Gold Standard: Ares ETR
"The Professional’s Choice"
The Ares ETR (Extreme Tactical Rifle) is perhaps the most popular model in the lineup. It offers 90% of the Cronus's performance but at a more accessible price point.
- The Build: It features a 34mm tube for massive elevation travel and stainless steel turrets for a distinct, tactile "click."
- Why Buy It? Perfect for serious hunters who need a rugged, locking-turret system that won't shift while trekking through thick scrub.
3. The All-Rounder: Helos BTR Gen 2
"Versatility Personified"
The Helos BTR Gen 2 is the "Swiss Army Knife" of the Athlon family. It bridges the gap between a dedicated target scope and a practical hunting scope.
- The Standout: It features Locking Turrets. This is a game-changer for Australian hunters—no more worrying about your turrets bumping out of alignment while slung over your shoulder.
- Why Buy It? Ideal for those who use the same rifle for both range days and weekend goat or deer hunting.
4. The Value King: Argos BTR Gen 2
"The Gateway to Precision"
New to long-range shooting? The Argos BTR Gen 2 is widely considered the best "first" FFP (First Focal Plane) scope on the market.
- The Value: You get features like a True Zero Stop and illuminated reticles—features usually missing in "budget" optics.
- Why Buy It? If you’re setting up a .22LR precision trainer or getting into long-range shooting on a budget, the Argos is unbeatable.
Why Buy Athlon from XHunter AU?
When you buy from XHunter AU, you aren't just getting a box; you're getting local Australian support.
- Lifetime Warranty: Athlon’s "Gold Medal Warranty" is legendary. If it breaks, they fix it.
- Expert Knowledge: We don't just sell these; we use them. We can help you match the right MOA or MIL reticle to your specific caliber.
- Fast Local Shipping: Skip the international wait times. We ship directly from our Australian warehouse.
"Our mission at XHunter AU is to bring world-class precision to the Australian shooting community without the premium price tag. Athlon Optics embodies that mission perfectly."
