Athlon Optics Introduces the Ares HLR Lightweight Hunting Riflescope

Athlon Optics is adding the Ares HLR to their lineup, and the pitch is simple: a precision riflescope built for hunters who move a lot and count ounces. The lighter of the two available configurations comes in at 18.9 ounces, which puts it firmly in backcountry-viable territory without asking you to give up exposed turrets or an illuminated reticle to get there.

The Ares HLR is built on a one-piece 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube and features ultra-premium fully multi-coated glass. Athlon designed the exposed turret system for tactile, positive adjustments with reliable return to zero, which matters when you are dialing corrections at distance on an animal you have been chasing all morning. The illuminated reticle keeps the sight picture usable from first light through last light, and Athlon is claiming edge-to-edge clarity across the magnification range.

Six models are available across two configurations:

• 2.5-15×42, AHMC1 Fiber Dot SFP IR MOA / $962.49
• 2.5-15×42, APLR-H2 SFP IR MOA / $962.49
• 2.5-15×42, APRS-H2 SFP IR MIL / $962.49
• 4-24×50, AHMC1 Fiber Dot SFP IR MOA / $1,062.49
• 4-24×50, APLR-H2 SFP IR MOA / $1,062.49
• 4-24×50, APRS-H2 SFP IR MIL / $1,062.49

The weight difference between the two configurations is modest. The 2.5-15×42 at 18.9 ounces is the obvious choice for anyone going deep into the backcountry. The 4-24×50 runs approximately 21 ounces and adds meaningful magnification on the top end for shooters who want more reach on open ground. Both share the same 30mm tube, illuminated reticles, and exposed turret setup.

At just under a grand for the 2.5-15×42 and just over for the 4-24×50, the Ares HLR is sitting in a competitive spot against scopes from Vortex and Leupold in the same weight class and price bracket. Athlon has built a solid reputation for value in this range, and the feature set here is consistent with what they have delivered in previous releases.

Both configurations are in stock now through authorized Athlon Optics dealers. More information is at athlonoptics.com. Are you in the market for a lightweight hunting scope this year, and does the reticle selection factor heavily into how you shop? Let us know in the comments below. We always appreciate the feedback.

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