The Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 sits above the Argos BTR Gen 3 in Athlon’s own lineup, and this review covers the 4.5-27×50 configuration, the flagship long range option in the Ares family. Having run this scope through extended range sessions dialling well past 700 yards, it delivers exactly what Athlon promises, top tier optical and mechanical performance that builds directly on the well regarded first generation Ares BTR without the price tag of a fully premium competitor.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4.5-27x |
| Objective diameter | 50mm |
| Tube diameter | 30mm |
| Focal plane | First focal plane |
| Reticle | APLR3 (MOA) or APRS5/APRS3 (MIL), illuminated |
| Click value | 0.25 MOA or 0.1 MIL |
| Max adjustment | 80 MOA elevation and windage |
| Parallax | Side focus, 25 yards to infinity |
| Weight | 27.3 oz |
| Warranty | Athlon Lifetime Warranty |
Optical Performance
Athlon’s HD glass paired with a genuinely improved optical system over the first generation Ares delivers a noticeably brighter, clearer image across the full magnification range, and the difference is most apparent at the top of the 27x zoom, where the Gen 2 holds contrast and sharpness impressively well for the price bracket. The Xtra Protective Coating on exterior lens surfaces has proven genuinely useful in the field, resisting oil, dirt and light scratching through range bag use and a hunting trip in imperfect weather.
At 27x on a calm morning, resolving fine detail at genuine long range was convincingly sharp, and while some competitors at similar prices show real softening by the top of their zoom, the Ares BTR Gen 2 stays composed. Low light performance benefits from the substantial 50mm objective, staying usable well into marginal light at moderate magnification.
Reticle and Turrets
The APLR3 and APRS3/APRS5 reticles are true first focal plane designs, meaning every subtension is accurate at any magnification, with a busy but genuinely functional lower field of holdover and wind hold references suited to serious long range work. Illumination is bright enough for daylight use while offering usable low settings for dawn and dusk.
The redesigned stainless steel turret system is the standout improvement in this generation, and the difference over the original Ares BTR is genuinely noticeable if you have used the earlier version. Clicks feel sharper and more tactile, and the precision zero stop gives a clean, repeatable return to your original zero. The exposed direct dial turrets are built for genuine dialling use rather than a capped, set and forget approach.
Build Quality and Durability
The one piece precision machined 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminium body feels genuinely solid, and this scope has held zero through sustained recoil and rough handling in testing without any issues. Argon purging, which Athlon uses in place of the more common nitrogen for marginally better thermal stability, has kept the scope fog free through genuine cold and wet conditions.
At 27.3 oz this is a substantial scope, appropriately sized for the serious long range and precision work it targets rather than a lightweight carry rifle setup.
Who Should Buy This Scope
This is an excellent choice for a shooter serious about long range precision or PRS style competition who wants genuine top tier performance without stepping into the pricing of Nightforce, Leupold Mark 5HD or Vortex Razor territory. The redesigned turrets make a real difference for anyone dialling regularly at distance.
If your shooting stays within 400 yards or budget is a bigger constraint, the Argos BTR Gen 3 delivers a large share of the same philosophy at a considerably lower price, and the extra magnification and turret refinement here may be more than you need.
Pros
- Genuinely improved optical system holds clarity and contrast impressively well at maximum 27x magnification
- Redesigned stainless steel turrets deliver noticeably sharper, more tactile clicks than the first generation Ares
- True first focal plane reticle with comprehensive long range holdover and wind references
- Backed by Athlon’s lifetime warranty
Cons
- At 27.3 oz it is a substantial scope, and it carries a real price premium over Athlon’s own Argos BTR Gen 3
If you want genuine top tier long range performance without paying full premium pricing, this scope has earned its reputation for exactly that reason. Take a closer look and see how it fits your setup.
Alternatives to Consider
| Alternative | When it’s the better choice |
|---|---|
| Athlon Argos BTR Gen 3 6-24×50 | Budget is the primary constraint and 24x is enough magnification |
| Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 | You prefer the Vortex ecosystem and VIP warranty |
| Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 | You want a direct competitor with a similar precision pedigree |
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed between the Ares BTR and the Ares BTR Gen 2?
The Gen 2 introduces a redesigned stainless steel turret system shared with Athlon’s Midas TAC and Ares ETR lines, giving sharper, more tactile clicks, alongside an improved optical system for a brighter, clearer image throughout the magnification range.
Is the Ares BTR Gen 2 good for PRS competition?
Yes, its true first focal plane reticle, precision zero stop and refined turret system make it a genuinely strong choice for PRS style competition and serious long range shooting.
Is the Ares BTR Gen 2 first or second focal plane?
First focal plane, meaning the reticle’s holdover and ranging marks stay accurate at any magnification setting.
What magnification options does the Ares BTR Gen 2 come in?
It is available in multiple configurations including 2.5-15×50 and 4.5-27×50, so you can choose based on whether your priority is a wider practical range or maximum long range magnification.
Verdict
The Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 delivers genuine top tier long range performance, with a meaningfully improved turret system and optical clarity that holds up at maximum magnification, at a price that still undercuts many premium competitors. For a shooter serious about long range precision who wants real capability without the very top pricing tier, it remains an excellent choice.
See Also: Primary Arms GLx 4-16×50 Review
I’m Jake, a dedicated shooter and hunter who has spent years testing rifles, scopes, and gear in the field. I write from real experience, sharing what truly works, not what’s trendy. My goal is to give you honest, practical insights that help you make the right choices for your adventures and pursuits.
