Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8×42 Binoculars Review

Hands-On with the Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars

The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars promise exceptional clarity and performance in a rugged, lightweight package. Marketed toward outdoor enthusiasts and tactical users alike, these binoculars boast features like extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, advanced multi-coatings, and a durable magnesium alloy chassis. I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype and could handle the demands of my adventures.

For years, I’ve relied on a pair of aging binoculars that felt heavy and lacked clarity, especially in low-light conditions. I needed an upgrade that would provide sharper images, better light gathering, and improved portability for hiking, wildlife observation, and scouting. The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars seemed to offer the perfect balance of performance and affordability.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the binoculars. The rubber armor provides a secure grip, and the magnesium alloy chassis gives them a surprisingly light weight despite their robust construction. Compared to my older binoculars, which felt bulky and cumbersome, the Argos Gen II UHD felt like a significant upgrade in terms of ergonomics and portability.

I considered other models from Vortex and Leupold, but the Athlon binoculars stood out due to their combination of features and price point. While the Vortex Diamondback HD offered similar specifications, the Argos Gen II UHD boasted UHD glass and a magnesium chassis, potentially offering superior image quality and durability. Leupold’s BX-2 series was also a contender, but the Athlon’s more aggressive pricing swayed my decision.

My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. These binoculars felt like a serious piece of equipment, and I couldn’t wait to put them to the test in the field. I was especially eager to evaluate their optical performance and see if they could truly deliver on their promise of exceptional clarity and light gathering.

Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars on a weekend hiking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain varied from dense forest to open ridgelines, providing ample opportunities to observe wildlife and assess the binoculars’ performance in different lighting conditions. I also encountered light rain, allowing me to test their waterproof capabilities.

The binoculars performed admirably in all conditions. The image was sharp and clear, even in the early morning and late evening hours when the light was dim. The field of view was wide and immersive, making it easy to scan the landscape for deer and birds.

They were comfortable to use even for extended periods. I did not need any time to get used to them. The only minor issue I encountered was that the twist-up eyecups were a bit stiff at first, but they loosened up with use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars have proven to be a reliable and durable tool. They have accompanied me on numerous hunting trips, scouting missions, and wildlife observation outings. I have used them in rain, snow, and extreme heat, and they have consistently performed well.

There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The rubber armor has held up well to abrasion, and the lenses remain scratch-free. Cleaning is easy with a lens cloth.

These binoculars have far exceeded my expectations compared to my previous experiences. The image quality is noticeably superior, and the light gathering capabilities are exceptional. I can now spot wildlife at greater distances and in lower light conditions, giving me a significant advantage in the field.

Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars

Specifications

The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars feature an 8x magnification and a 42mm objective lens diameter. They utilize a roof prism design with BAK4 prism glass for optimal light transmission and image clarity. The Athlon binoculars also feature Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) lenses, Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses, and ESP Dielectric coating, all contributing to superior optical performance.

These specifications translate to a bright, sharp, and color-accurate image with minimal distortion. The 8x magnification provides a good balance between field of view and detail, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The 42mm objective lenses gather ample light, ensuring good performance in low-light conditions. The 17.3mm eye relief is also important for comfortable viewing, especially for those who wear glasses.

Performance & Functionality

The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars perform exceptionally well in terms of image quality, ease of use, and durability. The image is sharp and clear, with excellent color fidelity and contrast. The binoculars are easy to focus, and the diopter adjustment allows for fine-tuning to individual eyesight.

One of the greatest strengths of these binoculars is their light gathering ability. The UHD glass and advanced coatings work together to transmit a high percentage of light, resulting in a bright and clear image even in dim conditions. The only weakness I have observed is slight softness at the very edge of the field of view, but this is a minor issue that does not significantly detract from the overall viewing experience.

These binoculars meet and exceed my expectations. They deliver on their promise of exceptional optical performance and rugged durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars is excellent. The magnesium alloy chassis provides a lightweight yet sturdy foundation, and the rubber armor offers a comfortable and secure grip. The binoculars are well-balanced and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.

The binoculars are user-friendly with no significant learning curve. The center focus knob is smooth and precise, and the twist-up eyecups are easy to adjust. The locking diopter is a nice feature that prevents accidental adjustments.

Durability & Maintenance

The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars are built to last. The magnesium alloy chassis and rubber armor provide excellent protection against impacts and abrasion. The binoculars are also waterproof and fog proof, making them suitable for use in all weather conditions.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. The lenses can be cleaned with a lens cloth, and the exterior can be wiped down with a damp cloth. With proper care, these binoculars should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars come with a neck strap, lens covers, and a carrying case. They are also tripod adaptable, allowing for stable viewing during extended observation sessions.

There are no specific customization options available for these binoculars, but they are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as harnesses and lens cleaning kits. The tripod adaptability is a particularly valuable feature for those who plan to use the binoculars for astronomy or long-distance observation.

Pros and Cons of Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars

Who Should Buy Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars?

The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars are perfect for hunters, bird watchers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who demand high-quality optics in a durable and lightweight package. They are also a great choice for law enforcement and security personnel who need reliable binoculars for surveillance and observation.

These binoculars may not be the best choice for those who require extreme magnification or a very wide field of view. They are also not ideal for users who are extremely sensitive to edge distortion.

A must-have accessory for these binoculars is a good quality lens cleaning kit. A binocular harness can also be helpful for those who plan to carry them for extended periods.

Conclusion on Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars

The Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars are an excellent value for the money. They offer exceptional optical performance, rugged durability, and comfortable ergonomics at a price point that is competitive with other binoculars in their class.

The price is definitely justified. They deliver a level of performance that is typically found in binoculars costing significantly more.

I would highly recommend these binoculars to anyone looking for a high-quality and versatile pair of optics for outdoor use. They are a great investment that will provide years of reliable service. Upgrade your vision today with the Athlon Optics Argos Gen II UHD 8x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars and experience the difference!