Athlon Scope Review: Cronus BTR GEN2 1-6×24 UHD

The world of rifle scopes is teeming with variety, yet some models rise above the rest. The rising optics star Athlon offers one such standout with its Cronus BTR Gen 2. From my experience, I can honestly say this scope promises to deliver superior performance regardless of the application. But are you still hesitant, or do you like to thoroughly do your homework before buying a scope worthy of your rifle?

Well, you’re in luck! We went out and rigorously tested the Cronus, from range shooting to hiking for deer. If there is an application this scope can be used for, then we almost certainly tested it. After reading this article, you’ll almost certainly know if Cronus is the scope for you!

Testing Results: Cronus BTR GEN2 1-6×24 UHD

1) Overall Quality

Superb craftsmanship showcased in the Cronus BTR is hard to come by in scope manufacturers. This scope is made with 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum, known for its exceptional strength and mechanical integrity. This makes it ideal for protecting the intricate internal optics and withstands brutal tests from the elements.

This great scope is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, so you can rest assured that it can deliver reliable performance regardless of your environmental conditions. Another point I like to highlight is this scope’s recoil resistance, capable of surviving 1000G recoil 1000 times – you will hardly need it; still, it is a relief knowing your scope has reinforced durability and robustness.

2) Scope Magnification Range

This scope has a magnification range of 1-6x, which is the perfect size for short to medium-range shooting. I mostly use the scope for distances up to 500 yards.

It’s perfect for 3 gun competitions, tactical applications, and close to medium-range hunting. I especially enjoy the rapid target acquisition and fast distance adjustment this scope allows you to make. If you are a hunter who likes to walk and stalk, especially in dense brush, then this scope is perfect for you!

3) Reticle Design

This rifle scope features an ATSR2 SFP IR MOA reticle, which is specifically designed for 3-gun competition and tactical applications.

The reticle provides holdover points for bullet drop and wind compensation, calibrated for 68 and 69-grain BTHP 223 Rem/5.56mm NATO rounds. However, I have used the same scope on different calibers and bullet weights, so it has no problem adapting to your shooting preference.

The 1.4 MOA red dot can be easily zeroed at 200 yards. I also find the open centers below the aiming dot quite favorable for targets at further distances because it reduces target obstruction – allowing quick and clear shots.

4) Scope Adjustability

This is one of the most adjustable rifle scopes I have tested. It features Exposed Tactical Direct Dial Turrets for windage and elevation, allowing for very rapid and precise adjustments. The adjustment click value is 0.5 MOA, which offers exceptionally fine control for shooters.

I also enjoyed the Precision Zero Stop System, which allows you to return to your initial zero position with a sharp, precise stop. Also, the scope’s parallax adjustment is fixed at 100 yards. You can easily toggle between the magnification ranges from 1 to 6x, providing versatility whether you are in the field or in the range.

5) Scope Field Of View

The field of view (FOV) refers to the area visible through the scope at a glance, measured in feet at 100 yards. For applications such as competition shooting, tactical and close-range hunting, you want a wide field of view, allowing you to identify targets faster. The BTR Gen 2 offers a generous FOV ranging from 17.7 – 106 ft at 100 yards, making it ideal for these types of applications.

Its broad FOV allows for superior situational awareness, especially useful in hunting scenarios where tracking moving targets is required.

6) Performance In Low Lighting

Adding to the versatility of this scope is its ability to perform in almost any lighting condition. Thanks to its illuminated reticle, which enhances target visibility in obscure and poor lighting conditions, it performs especially well in low-light conditions.

Athlon went all out with the lens design. This scope features industry-leading advanced, fully multi-coated lenses, which enhance light transmission to deliver a bright and clear image when you place your eye on the comfortable eye box.

I tested the scope in various lighting conditions, but where it separates itself from other scopes is its ability to provide a crystal clear image during dawn and dusk shooting. This low-light performance makes it one of the best rifle scopes for varminting.

7) Scope Packaging

When you order the Cronus BTR Gen 2, you receive more than just the scope itself. You will also get an Allen wrench to help you mount the scope, a soft cleaning cloth to ensure your scope remains crystal clear and scratch-free, and an instruction manual to help you navigate the intricacies of this scope and ensure you utilize it to its full potential.

How To Pick A Good Rifle Scope

When shopping for a good scope, there are several factors you should consider, such as the type of hunting you will be doing – a night vision scope won’t be much use in close-range hog hunting scenarios in the middle of the day.

You should also consider the caliber you will be shooting with – intense recoil can damage a light-duty scope. You should also look at key features of the scope, including the quality of the lenses, magnification range, reticle type, durability, and adjustability like windage, elevation, and a parallax adjustment knob.

Luckily, HuntersHalt is here to help! We created a guide based on our own experience to help you choose the perfect rifle scope for your use case. Feel free to read it via the link provided!

What Are The Most Important Aspects Of A Hunting Scope?

Choosing a hunting scope can be just as important as choosing the caliber. A poor quality scope can lead to unpleasant hunting experiences and injured deer. Therefore, you should weigh several aspects against each other when looking at hunting scopes. Our most important aspects of a hunting scope include:

• Magnification range for the hunting type
• A clear and easy-to-use reticle
• Superior light transmission
• Durability
• Scope’s weight
• Size
• Value (Price)

For a comprehensive discussion on these aspects and the scope that provides the perfect balance between these aspects, visit our take on the best hunting scope.

Is Athlon Optics A Good Brand?

Athlon scopes are really good, and the brand has established itself as one of the best for producing high-quality scopes. Athlon offers a wide range of optics, allowing you to satisfy your needs across different hunting and shooting activities. Their most popular scopes include the Midas TAC, Argos BTR, Ares BTR, and of course, the Cronus BTR.

Is Athlon Better Than Leupold?

It depends on your specific shooting needs and the models Leupold and Athlon have to fulfill those needs. Both these companies produce top-notch scopes. Leupold is known for its long-standing reputation and high-end scopes, often competing with and outperforming brands like Vortex – check here for our in-depth comparison of Leupold vs Vortex.

However, Athlon has rapidly gained recognition for offering scopes with similar features and performance at competitive prices. Based on my own experiences, Leupold is better for red dots and long-range standard and quality hunting scopes, and Athlon is better for medium-range, high-performance scopes.

Is Athlon Better Than Vortex?

Both brands offer quality scopes across a range of prices. Vortex has a wide range of products and a strong reputation, particularly for its customer service and warranty. I especially enjoy using Vortex scopes for deer hunting. Athlon, however, offers great value, often packing premium features into more affordably priced scopes.

Is Athlon Better Than Primary Arms?

Athlon and Primary Arms both deliver excellent optics. Primary Arms is well-regarded for their reticle designs and affordability, especially in the budget to mid-range market – their classic series is especially good as a scout scope. Athlon, on the other hand, often provides more high-end features in their scopes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

This scope is a testament to Athlon’s commitment to quality and innovation. Despite a few minor issues, such as the weight, the scope truly surpasses expectations with its superior optics, innovative reticle design, robust adjustability, and versatile applications. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a tactical enthusiast, or a hunter seeking the perfect scope for close to mid-range precision. the Cronus is the scope for you!