When you need to stretch your shots to extreme distances, the quality of your glass becomes the single most critical factor between a hit and a miss. I recently spent several weeks putting the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm through its paces on various precision rifle platforms, and this hands-on Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm Review [Hands-On 2025] aims to give you a clear picture of its capabilities. The primary benefit you get is a feature set typically found in much more expensive optics, making high-performance long-range shooting more accessible.
![Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm Review [Hands-On 2025]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31v4Cesli6L._SL500_.jpg)
From the moment you unbox it, the Midas TAC feels like a serious tool. The build quality is immediately apparent, and the tactical turrets offer a level of tactile feedback that builds confidence. I tested it in conditions ranging from bright, sunny days to low-light dusk, evaluating everything from optical clarity and tracking consistency to the overall ruggedness of the construction. It’s designed for shooters who demand repeatability and clarity without compromise.
Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm Review [Hands-On 2025] – Quick Verdict
After extensive field testing, the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm establishes itself as a formidable contender in the mid-range tactical optics market. It delivers exceptional optical clarity and rock-solid mechanical performance that you would typically expect from scopes costing significantly more. For precision rifle enthusiasts, long-range hunters, and competitors on a budget, this scope offers a compelling package that punches well above its weight class. The combination of a robust build, a clear and bright image, and reliable tracking makes it a top-tier value proposition.
Pros
- Outstanding glass clarity and color fidelity for its class
- Precise and repeatable tracking with the APLR4 FFP IR-MOA reticle
- Robust and weatherproof construction that inspires confidence
- Excellent value for the features and performance offered
Cons
- The scope is relatively heavy, which may not suit ultra-lightweight builds
- The illumination could be brighter for use in the brightest daylight conditions
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Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm Review [Hands-On 2025] Overview
The Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm is a first focal plane (FFP) riflescope built specifically for precision long-range shooting. Its core purpose is to provide shooters with the necessary tools to make accurate windage and elevation corrections at any magnification, with reticle subtensions that remain consistent throughout the zoom range. This is a critical feature for tactical applications, competitive shooting, and serious long-range hunting where quick, calculated shots are necessary.
This scope is designed for a discerning user. The primary audience includes precision rifle competitors, long-range hunters pursuing game like prairie dogs or elk at extended ranges, and tactical shooters who require dependable equipment. It’s not a general-purpose hunting scope; its features cater to those who understand and utilize ballistic calculations. Key specifications include a 30mm main tube, a 50mm objective lens, and the APLR4 FFP IR-MOA reticle. It offers generous elevation and windage adjustment ranges, which I found to be more than sufficient for most calibers out to 1,000 yards and beyond.
During my testing, the scope was mounted on a 6.5 Creedmoor bolt-action rifle. The first impression was its substantial feel—it’s built to handle recoil and rough field use. The zero-stop mechanism was straightforward to set, and the turrets, with their large, easy-to-grip knobs, provided clear and audible clicks. The overall design philosophy is clearly focused on functionality and durability for the demanding shooter.
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Key Features & Performance
In real-world use, several features of the Midas TAC stood out as critical to its performance. These aren’t just items on a spec sheet; they are the elements that directly impact your ability to shoot accurately and consistently at long range.
Exceptional Glass Clarity and Resolution
The heart of any good scope is its glass, and Athlon has equipped the Midas TAC with fully multi-coated lenses that deliver a bright, high-contrast image. I was particularly impressed with the resolution and color fidelity. On a clear day, spotting .223 bullet holes in a target at 300 yards was achievable. The edge-to-edge sharpness is very good, with minimal chromatic aberration even when observing high-contrast edges like a dark target against a bright sky. This level of clarity reduces eye strain during long shooting sessions and allows for more precise aiming.
First Focal Plane APLR4 IR-MOA Reticle
The FFP design means the reticle grows and shrinks with the magnification, ensuring the subtensions are always accurate. The APLR4 reticle is a clean, uncluttered design that is highly functional. The Christmas tree-style holdovers are invaluable for engaging moving targets or making rapid corrections for wind without dialing the turrets. The illuminated center dot is fine enough for precise aiming, and while I noted it’s not the brightest on the market, it is perfectly usable in most low-light scenarios and against darker backgrounds.
Precise and Repeatable Turrets
This is where the Midas TAC truly shines. The tactical-style turrets feature a crisp, positive click that is both audible and tactile. I performed a “box test” to check tracking accuracy, and the scope returned to zero perfectly after numerous elevation and windage adjustments. The 1/4 MOA clicks are precise, and the revolution indicator is clear and easy to read. The zero-stop is a simple, tool-less design that is easy to set and provides a reliable physical stop, which is a must-have for any serious long-range optic.
Robust Construction and Usability
The scope body is constructed from a single piece of 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, and it feels incredibly solid. It is purged with argon gas, making it both fog-proof and waterproof. I subjected it to light rain and significant temperature changes without any issues with internal fogging or moisture. The side parallax adjustment, which goes down to 10 yards, is smooth and allows for quick focusing. The magnification ring is stiff but manageable, and the throw lever is a welcome addition for rapid magnification changes.
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Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing the Athlon Midas TAC 6-24x50mm, I can confidently say it is one of the best values currently available for shooters stepping into the long-range discipline or experienced marksmen looking for a reliable backup optic. Its performance in critical areas like glass quality and tracking reliability meets or exceeds that of many competitors.
Pros
- The optical clarity is superb, providing a bright, sharp image that competes with optics in a higher tier.
- Mechanical performance is flawless, with exact tracking and a reliable, easy-to-set zero-stop.
- The FFP APLR4 reticle is intelligently designed and highly functional for holds and corrections.
- The overall build quality is exceptional, feeling rugged and dependable in all conditions.
Cons
- The scope’s weight is noticeable and may be a drawback for hunters building an ultralight mountain rifle.
- The illumination, while functional, lacks the extreme brightness needed for use in direct, bright sunlight.
I highly recommend the Athlon Midas TAC for precision rifle competitors, long-range hunters who don’t mind the extra weight, and tactical shooters. It is an ideal choice for anyone who needs a feature-rich, FFP scope with proven tracking accuracy. However, if you are a hunter who primarily makes quick shots at shorter ranges on a lightweight rifle, or if maximum daylight illumination brightness is a non-negotiable requirement for you, this might not be the perfect fit.
What Customers Say About This Product
User feedback generally aligns perfectly with my own hands-on experience, highlighting the scope’s standout performance where it matters most.
Mark T. – “This is my first FFP scope, and the clarity is amazing for the money. I use it on my .308 for PRS-style matches, and the tracking has been spot-on. The turrets are loud and crisp, just how I like them.”
Sarah L. – “Upgraded from a budget scope, and the difference is night and day. Being able to use the reticle for holds at any magnification is a game-changer for prairie dog hunting. It’s held zero perfectly through hundreds of rounds.”
James R. – “Built like a tank. Survived a nasty fall from the bench onto gravel with only a few scratches and no loss of zero. The glass is very sharp in the center, though I agree the illumination is a bit dim in full sun.”
David K. – “The zero-stop was simple to set, and the locking turrets give me great peace of mind. It’s a bit heavy, but for a dedicated long-range rig, the trade-off for the features and durability is worth it.”