The 10x42 configuration of this Cronus G2 model makes for a versatile binocular, but one that will really excel in wide open areas where you often find yourself observing wildlife, people or objects at longer distances. Here the higher power gets you closer to the action, but it is not so great as to make the image difficult to keep still in your hands or reduce the field of view by too much. Ideal used include general wildlife observation, hunting and even birding in lakeside or coastal areas where light is good and the distances are a little greater. The 19.3mm of eye-relief also make this a great choice should you need to want to wear glasses whilst binning.
The flagship series from Athlon optics is the Cronus G2 and it is one that they can justifiably be very proud of as it boasts an impressive array of top-end features and components that make them one of the very best at this price point and even a match for some that cost far more.
The Athlon Cronus G2 family consists of two binoculars with a choice of either 10x42 or 8.5x42 configurations, you can opt for a wider view and better low light performance or choose to have slightly more reach with a higher definition image.
The Athlon Cronus G2 has a top specification body. The chassis is constructed out of magnesium that is as strong as metal, but according to the manufacturer is up to 35% lighter. It is also far more resistant to expansion and contraction with temperature changes, something that can cause misalignment of the optics and therefore a reduction in image quality.
Fully sealed, the chassis is also filled with dry Argon gas thus making the instrument fully waterproof and protected against internal lens fogging.
The lockable diopter adjuster is incorporated into the large, easy to reach focus wheel and the twist-up eyecups have multiple intermediate click stops to ensure you get the full view, with or without glasses.
As well as a great body, the optics on Athlon Cronus G2 binoculars are also out of the top-drawer:
Both models feature BaK-4 roof prisms that are Phase corrected as well as Dielectrically Coated. Both of these are important to note, but the Dielectric mirror coatings stand out as they are able to reflect more than 99% of the light across the full spectrum, whereas competitors using silver mirror coated prisms will have a reflectivity of between 95% to 98%.
This, along with a Fully Multi-Coated optical system with ED glass lenses ensure that not only as much light as possible is collected and then transmitted through the pathway and onto your eyes, but it is done so with the minimum amount of distortion as possible.
The result is an image that is both super bright and of a very high definition.
These binoculars come with the usual arrangement of accessories that includes a carry case, neck strap, lens covers, rain-guard and cleaning cloth.
Athlon offers a lifetime warranty on their Cronus binoculars and they will replace or repair them at no cost to you, should they get damaged during normal use.