5 Common Athlon Scope Problems &  Their Solutions

Athlon is a well-known brand, and everyone trusts them. Their products including binoculars, and scopes, are very famous among outdoor enthusiasts. In fact, hunters, and shooters love the accuracy and reliability of the Athlon scopes.

However, not all of their products, especially scopes, are perfect and the users do encounter issues with them. In this guide, I am going to discuss those common Athlon scope problems.

Not only will I discuss the common issues, but I will also try my best to give you solutions to those problems so that you use the scope without any issues. Let’s get started.

Related Article: Are Spotting Scope Tripods Universal?

Common Athlon Problems and Their Solutions

I know the Athlon is one of the most trusted, and reliable optics brands, but the issue comes even with the famous brands. Some common problems encountered with Athlon scopes can be frustrating for the users

Keep in mind that understanding the basic components and features of Athlon scopes can help users identify and solve common problems. By identifying, and solving the problems, the Athlon scopes will provide reliable and accurate performance for years to come. 

In the section below, I am going to list the common problems, and also give you some practical solutions. So, let’s dive into it.

1- Focusing Issues

One of the most common problems that many users face with Athlon scopes is focusing issues. This issue is more common when you have an older Athlon scope. According to my experience, you won’t face the focusing issue in new Athlon scopes.

In case you have an old scope, and are facing the focusing issues, then I am going to list some easy to follow solutions to get your scope back to normal performance.

• Adjust the diopter ring to readjust the focus
• Make sure that the scope is properly mounted and aligned with the rifle
• Remove the scope from the rifle, and remount it with perfect alignment
• Clean the lens to remove any dirt or smudges that may be affecting the image quality

2- Reticle Drift

Reticle drift is another common issue that you’ll face. Actually, when you use the Athlon scope in harsh conditions, then they can slip out of your hands during mounting on the rifle, and their reticle can move from their original position. This is called reticle drift.

Due to reticle drift, you won’t be able to focus accurately. This issue does not come if you keep the binoculars safe from falling. One thing that I must say is that Athlon scopes are not bad: and these issues are not present in the new models.

To fix the reticle drift, you’ll have to unscrew all the nuts and check the alignment. But, I don’t recommend you to do that as the scopes have complex interior components. You should visit an expert or professional to get this issue resolved. 

3- Glowing Red Specks in the FOV

I recently met a guy from my town, and he complained that he notices small, glowing red specks in the field of view (FOV) of their Athlon scopes. This is very frustrating as you won’t be able to focus on the target accurately. But the issue is how to solve it.

Actually, you don’t need to do much of the work if you’re noticing a red light in the FOV. This issue comes in only those scopes that have illuminated reticles. All you have to do is to ensure that the illumination settings are properly adjusted and not causing the red specks. Turn off the illumination and observe if the issue persists.

4- Mounting Difficulties

Sometimes, you can face issues while mounting your scope on the rifle. The Mounting difficulties are very frustrating as it would take a lot of time and avoid you from using your rifle to shoot the buck. But this issue is not within the scope. 

I know that many people in online communities discuss it as an issue with the Athlon scope. In fact it is an issue of compatibility. When you choose the wrong scope for your rifle, then you will face the mounting issue. So, I recommend you use the scope which is compatible with your rifle.

5- Usage of Poor Glass Material

Recently, one of my friends told me that he had an Athlon scope which is not too old, and the lenses started to give fade visuals. I was shocked because I don’t expect such poor-quality lenses from this brand. And I actually checked his scope, and he was right.

So, I came to know that he had a counterfeit scope which he did not know about. So, you should also be careful while purchasing fake Athlon scopes.

One thing that might sound weird to you is that there are many fake or counterfeit Athlon scopes available in the market. So, you should buy a scope from an authorized dealer so that you don’t get cheap glass material in the lenses.

Look, the counterfeit scopes are always cheaper. The reason is that the manufacturer uses low-quality glass material which makes the scope cheaper, but over time, the visual quality of your scopes will be affected.

Very few Athlon scopes (Original scopes) have issues with the glass material, but this issue is not very common. I recommend you check the scope before buying it. It will ensure that you choose a scope with high-quality glass material. While buying an Athlon scope, don’t be in a hurry and take time to ensure that you choose a scope made with the highest glass material.

Note: The lens issue in the Athlon scopes (original, and genuine) is not very common – so you shouldn’t be worried about it. However, it is better to choose them wisely to avoid any issue.

Preventive Measures for Athlon Scope Problems

So, now you know the common issue that you can encounter with the Athlon scopes. But do you know that by taking proper precautionary steps, you can keep your Athlon scopes safe from these issues? 

Look, all the common Athlon problems that I have mentioned earlier don’t come in new scopes, it means that those issues or problems come when you have old scopes. But in the section below, I will give you some very good steps that you can take to keep your scope safe from those problems.

Also Read: Can You Use A Rifle Scope On A Pellet Gun?

1- Regular Maintenance and Care

The first, and most important step is to keep your Athlon scope safe. Don’t ignore them as they are must-have tools for outdoor activities. So, I recommend you use a microfiber cloth to clean the lenses regularly. 

Important Note: While clearing, don’t use harsh chemicals as they can damage the lens coating.

Before each time, you bring your scope out of the case, you should check for loose screws and tighten them if necessary. Loose screws can cause the scope to lose zero and affect accuracy.

I highly recommend using a small amount of lubricant on moving parts to prevent wear and tear.

2- Proper Handling while Using

Athlon scopes are precision instruments that require proper handling to prevent damage. I have noticed many times the user drops the scope while mounting it on the rifle. This causes issues for the internal components.

When you’re out, and using your Athlon scope, then you should always use lens caps to protect the lenses from scratches and dust. This is very important especially if you are using them in a place where dust and debris are common.

While using the scope, do not touch the lenses directly. The reason is that touching the lenses can leave fingerprints and smudges, affecting clarity. So, you’ll have to use a microfiber cloth to remove the fingerprints. While cleaning the lens, you might damage the lens coatings.

Common Issue with Athlon Optics Brand

Athlon is a well-known brand, and their scopes are also known due to their accuracy. But I have found some issues with the brand itself. Again, I am not against the Athlon company, and they are one of the best brands out there in the market. No doubt about it!

But I am not satisfied with their customer support system. This is where they need to improve. Although their products come with a warranty. But when you get a faulty product, and you claim the warranty, the issue starts there.

Their official customer support system is too slow, and it will take around a month to establish a connection and request them for replacement or repairs. Suppose you contact them through their official website, they will reply late, and get your issue hanging in between.

However, if you visit their physical branch, then they will quickly hear your issue, and try to fix it. I am not saying that they don’t replace or repair the product which is under warranty, but the process is slow and tiring.

Suppose you have a scope, and you want to use it for your routine shooting. It gets damaged, and you want to get it repaired or replaced, then you’ll have to wait for at least one month to get your issue resolved. This is frustrating, and I would definitely love it if they speed things up while talking and handling the issues.

No doubt that Athlon scopes are excellent – and their performance always satisfies me. But I have given some of my reservations that the company should look at, and improve. My criticism is for good – for both customers and the brand itself.

Frequently Asked Questions