Our Top 19 Optics for Gold Prospecting: Athlon Midas Ed

The Athlon Optics Midas Ed combines remarkable versatility with cutting-edge optics technology. This versatile rifle scope delivers exceptional clarity and precision, making it an ideal choice for various hunting and shooting applications.

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Reviews

Athlon Optics Midas Binocular

These binoculars excel at cutting through the haze, thanks to their premium extra-low dispersion glass that eliminates those annoying color fringes at the edges of your view. The phase-corrected roof prisms and enhanced spectral coating work together to pump up the contrast and resolution, making it easier to spot that distant buck. When the light fades at dawn and dusk, the 12x magnification and 50mm objective lens open up a world of detail, with the Argon purging keeping the optics crystal clear even in those challenging low-light moments.

Athlon Optics Midas G2 UHD Binoculars

These compact binoculars pack impressive optical performance into a surprisingly lightweight package. Thanks to their magnesium chassis and fully multi-coated lenses, they deliver exceptional brightness and color accuracy, ideal for bird watching and nature observation. While some users have noted minor quality control issues with the accessory clips, the robust construction and lifetime warranty make these a solid investment for serious observers.

Athlon Optics 8x42 Midas Ed Binocular

These binoculars combine premium optics with a robust, magnesium frame that’s both lightweight and durable. The ED glass and multi-coated lenses deliver exceptional clarity and color accuracy, while the waterproof, argon-purged design ensures reliable performance in any weather. Whether you’re bird watching, hunting, or just exploring the great outdoors, the Midas binoculars provide an outstanding viewing experience.

Athlon Midas 1 Mile Laser Rangefinder

This rangefinder packs impressive 6x magnification into a surprisingly lightweight package, making it perfect for hunters and outdoors enthusiasts who need reliable distance measurements. The fully multi-coated lenses and intuitive scan mode lets you quickly determine exact distances, whether you’re spotting targets from a distance or measuring slopes. The durable rubber-armored body even includes a wrist strap for those long days in the field, ensuring your hands stay comfortable and secure around this essential tool.

Athlon Optics Midas 1 Mile G2 Laser Rangefinder

This powerful rangefinder packs impressive performance into an intuitive package. Its advanced angle compensation and lightning-fast scan mode make it a joy to use, whether you’re glassing from a hillside or moving quickly between targets. The reliable lithium battery and waterproof construction ensure it’s always ready when you need precise range information at your fingertips.

Athlon Midas AL28 Aluminum Tripod

The Athlon Midas AL28 tripod combines robust aluminum construction with precise ball head controls for serious spotting and photography. At just over 6 feet tall when extended, it provides more than enough reach for most applications while remaining surprisingly portable for its capabilities. The twist-lock legs offer quick adjustments for both backpacking and stationary use, while the included storage bag keeps the whole system compact for transport.

Athlon Midas G2 Binoculars

These compact binoculars combine exceptional image quality with robust durability, featuring lightweight magnesium construction and fully multi-coated lenses that deliver sharp, color-true views. The waterproof, shockproof design and XPL coating protect the exterior lenses from the elements, while the smooth-moving mechanism and improved eyecups make them comfortable to use over extended periods. Whether you’re hunting, birdwatching, or exploring the great outdoors, the Athlon Optics Midas G2 binoculars deliver clear, reliable performance in any weather.

Athlon Cronus 15x56 Binocular

At just 9 inches long and weighing a mere 26 ounces, the magnesium chassis keeps these binoculars incredibly light without sacrificing durability. The 15x56 model delivers exceptional clarity with its extra-low dispersion glass and E2ES lens system, making it stand out even among competitors priced significantly higher. The 13.1-foot close focus and 235-foot linear field of view at 1,000 yards showcase just how well these binoculars perform at closer ranges and in tighter situations.

Athlon Optics Midas G2 10x50 UHD Binoculars

These mid-range binoculars combine brilliant optical performance with a surprisingly lightweight magnesium body. The premium coatings and premium glass really shine when you’re out in the elements, giving you sharp, color-true views of whatever you’re tracking. While they’re a bit heavy for spotting scopes, the solid build quality and lifetime warranty make them a great pick for serious hunters or birdwatchers who want reliable gear that won’t break the bank.

Athlon Optics 10x42 Talos G2 HD Binoculars

With their robust 42mm objective lenses and HD glass construction, these binoculars deliver stunning clarity while remaining surprisingly practical for both casual observers and serious enthusiasts. Whether you’re scanning birdlife along the coast or stalking distant prey in the wilderness, their weather-sealed design and 19.3mm eye relief make them incredibly reliable companions for any adventure. At just over 20 ounces, their lightweight yet durable aluminum body makes them a joy to carry around all day.

Athlon Optics Neos G2 HD Binoculars

These binoculars blend superior optics with robust weather protection, sporting a durable composite body that’s fully waterproof and fog-proof. The premium BaK-4 prism glass and fully multi-coated lenses produce razor-sharp images, suitable for both casual observers and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts.

Athlon Optics Midas CF40 Carbon Fiber Tripod

The carbon fiber construction makes the tripod surprisingly light for its remarkable stability, with each leg engineered to resist twisting and bending. The adjustable height ranges from a compact 25 inches to a generous 71 inches, giving you plenty of flexibility for different shooting positions. The ball head adds smooth movement and precise control, while the included accessories like the padded case and shoulder sling make carrying and protecting your investment a breeze. Whether you’re hunting, spotting distant targets, or mounting heavy equipment, the Athlon Midas CF40 delivers the support you need without weighing you down.

Athlon Optics Argos G2 10x42 UHD Binoculars

These binoculars combine sharp 10x magnification with fully multi-coated lenses for exceptional light gathering. The magnesium chassis keeps them light while providing durable support for long sessions in the field. The phase-corrected prisms and HD coatings deliver incredibly clear images with rich color, making these binos stand out for both casual birding and serious hunting.

Athlon Optics Midas G2 Binoculars

These binoculars deliver impressive clarity and bright images thanks to their high-quality lenses and magnesium chassis that’s both strong and surprisingly light. The waterproof design and durable XPL coating make them tough enough for any outdoor adventure, while the ergonomic twist-up eyecups and comfortable rubber armor ensure they’re a pleasure to use. Whether you’re bird-watching, hiking, or just exploring nature, these binos provide a fantastic balance of performance and value.

Athlon Cronus 10x42 UHD Binoculars

The Athlon Cronus 10x42 binoculars deliver exceptional optical performance with their ED glass and E2ES lens system, providing crystal-clear images with exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness. The magnesium chassis and waterproof construction make them durable enough for serious field use, while the fully multi-coated lenses maintain brilliance in low light. Whether you’re glassing for wildlife or spotting details at a distance, these binoculars excel at showing you exactly what’s out there.

Athlon Optics Argos G2 8x42 Binoculars

When you’re into hunting or serious bird watching, these binoculars give you a clear picture of whatever you’re looking at. The special coatings on the lenses protect them from getting dirty in the field, and the lightweight design means your arms won’t get tired holding them up. Whether you’re spotting deer or watching birds, these glasses make colors pop and details stand out.

Athlon Optics Cronus UHD 10x50

Hunting for details in the distance? The Athlon Optics Cronus UHD 10x50 magnifies those distant targets into crystal-clear view, thanks to its extra-low dispersion glass and efficient optics design that minimizes chromatic aberration. Its lightweight magnesium frame and robust weatherproofing make it a practical choice for both casual birdwatching and serious hunting trips, while the quick-focusing center adjuster keeps your shots steady whether you’re scanning the woods or spotting distant wildlife.

Athlon Optics Cronus G2 Binoculars

Combining sharp 15x magnification with ultra-wide 56mm lenses, these blacked-out binoculars pack serious power into a surprisingly manageable frame. The ED glass and precision coating system deliver exceptionally clear, color-accurate views that pop with vibrant detail. Built for the real world, the magnesium body handles rough use while keeping weight down, though the 16.4-inch length might feel a bit cumbersome for some.

Athlon Optics Midas Binoculars

Combining high-end optics with a surprisingly affordable price tag, these compact binoculars pack impressive features into a durable, weather-resistant package. The extra-low dispersion glass and multi-coated lenses deliver exceptional light grasp and color fidelity, while the BaK-4 prisms and ESP coating ensure crystal-clear views from dawn to dusk. The rubber-armored body grips comfortably in all weather conditions, making them a practical choice for experienced bird-watchers and casual nature enthusiasts alike.

Buyer’s Guide

When selecting binocular optics, the Midas Ed series from Athlon offers impressive performance. Understanding key specifications ensures you choose the right model for your needs.

Magnification and Lens Size

The Midas Ed combines 8x magnification with 42mm objective lenses, providing excellent balance between field of view and optical comfort. Smaller 32mm models offer portability, while larger optics enhance low-light performance.

Coating Quality

Look for multiple layer coatings on both sides of each lens. Premium coatings like BaK4 prisms and fully multicoated optics minimize glare, enhance contrast, and maintain color accuracy.

Build Quality and Accessories

Choose models with rubber armor or durable synthetic coatings for protection. The included carrying case and strap are essential for safe transport. Weight and balance affect usability, especially during extended viewing.

Price Point Considerations

Entry-level models (around $150) offer basic functionality, while mid-range options (approximately $250) provide superior optics. Premium models exceeding $400 deliver exceptional performance but may be overkill for casual users.

FAQ

What sets the Athlon Optics Midas Ed apart from other mid-range telescopes?

The Midas Ed combines exceptional optical performance with a competitive price point, featuring a 150mm aperture and 1200mm focal length. Its dual-speed worm gear and 7-inch diameter deliver smooth, accurate tracking, making it particularly effective for planetary and deep-sky imaging.

Key specifications include a focal ratio of f/8, an aluminum tube with black anodizing, and a robust German equatorial mount. The included 2x barlow lens and finderscope enhance its versatility for both visual observation and astrophotography.

How does the dew prevention system on the Midas Ed compare to similar systems on other telescopes?

The Midas Ed features a built-in dew shield that extends beyond the primary mirror, reducing exposure to moisture and maintaining optimal imaging conditions. Unlike some telescopes that require additional accessories, this integrated system helps prevent condensation during observing sessions.

The dew heater included with the telescope provides an additional layer of protection, delivering consistent warmth to the optical tube assembly without overheating the mirror. This combination helps maintain optimal seeing conditions, even in challenging environmental circumstances.

What kind of mount stability can I expect from the German equatorial mount?

The German equatorial mount offers rock-solid stability for its class, with a maximum payload capacity of 24 pounds. The dual-speed worm gear provides smooth, responsive slewing, while the counterweight system ensures proper balance for extended observing sessions.

Key stability features include a dual-axis locking mechanism and adjustable counterweights, allowing precise setup for various observational needs. The mount’s sturdy aluminum construction and weighted base help minimize vibrations and provide consistent tracking accuracy.

Can I upgrade the optics or electrical components on this telescope?

The 150mm primary mirror is factory-finished and optimized for wide-field imaging, though third-party mounting options are available for advanced users. Consider the optical tube assembly’s robust structure when contemplating modifications, as significant upgrades may require special adapters or mounts.

The electronic components are sealed and designed for long-term use, with limited upgrade options available through the manufacturer. For most users, the included features and optional accessories offer comprehensive functionality without the need for extensive modifications.

What kind of accessories come with the Midas Ed?

The Midas Ed package includes essential accessories like a 2x barlow lens, finderscope, and dedicated carrying case. The 2x barlow doubles the power of any installed eyepiece, expanding the scope’s versatility for both visual and photographic observing.

Additional accessories available separately include multiple eyepiece options, a solar filter for daytime viewing, and remote camera mounts for astrophotography. The included carrying case protects the telescope during transport and storage.

How does the included eyepiece choice affect initial observing sessions?

The Midas Ed includes a dual-tube Newtonian eyepiece as standard equipment, offering both wide-field and planetary viewing configurations. The 25mm focal length delivers a generous field of view for deep-sky objects, while the 10mm focal length provides higher magnification for detailed planetary and lunar observation.

For most users, the included eyepieces serve as an ideal introduction to both types of astronomical viewing. While alternative eyepieces are available, the provided pair offers excellent value and versatility for initial observing sessions.

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