Best Budget Spotter? Athlon Cronus vs. Argos

Published on July 8, 2023
Duration: 9:52

This review compares the Athlon Cronus G2 UHD and Argos HD spotting scopes, focusing on their performance for competitive shooters. The Argos HD is presented as a solid budget option under $500, excelling at 20x magnification but degrading at higher powers. The Cronus G2, priced around $1000, offers significantly better clarity and color retention across its magnification range, though it lacks interchangeable eyepieces. Both scopes feature built-in sunshades and rotating collars, with the Cronus G2 having a superior focus knob and integrated metal Arca plate.

Quick Summary

The Athlon Cronus G2 UHD ($1000) offers superior glass quality and clarity across its 20-60x magnification range compared to the budget-friendly Athlon Argos HD ($380). While the Argos HD performs well at 20x, its clarity degrades significantly at higher powers. Both feature built-in sunshades and rotating collars, but the Cronus G2 boasts a smoother focus knob and an integrated metal Arca plate.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Scope Overview
  2. 00:41Review Disclosure & Ethics
  3. 01:04Athlon Argos HD Details & Use
  4. 02:08Argos HD Glass Performance
  5. 02:48Argos HD Issues & Customer Service
  6. 03:17Shared Features: Packaging & Caps
  7. 03:51Shared Features: Mounts & Adjustments
  8. 04:48Shared Features: Focus & Sunshade
  9. 05:40Athlon Cronus G2 UHD Glass Performance
  10. 07:02Cronus G2 UHD Critique & Value
  11. 08:13Athlon's Market Focus & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price difference between the Athlon Cronus G2 and Argos HD spotting scopes?

The Athlon Argos HD 20-60x85 is priced around $380 (as of Summer 2023), positioning it as a budget-friendly option. The Athlon Cronus G2 UHD, on the other hand, costs approximately $1000, placing it in a higher price tier with enhanced optical performance.

How does the glass quality compare between the Athlon Cronus G2 and Argos HD?

The Cronus G2 UHD offers significantly better glass quality, maintaining crisp clarity and excellent color retention across its magnification range. The Argos HD provides good clarity at 20x but experiences a noticeable degradation in clarity and color at higher magnifications, becoming grainy and dark at 60x.

What are the key shared features of the Athlon Cronus G2 and Argos HD spotting scopes?

Both scopes include built-in sunshades and rotating collars for angled viewing. They also come with carrying cases and lens caps. However, the objective lens caps on both can detach easily. The Cronus G2 features a superior built-in metal Arca plate, while the Argos HD has a detachable plastic one.

Which Athlon spotting scope is better for competitive shooting on a budget?

For competitive shooters on a budget, the Athlon Argos HD is an excellent choice, especially if most observation is done at 20x magnification. It offers good performance for its price. However, if budget allows for a higher investment, the Cronus G2 provides superior optical clarity and color fidelity across all magnifications.

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