I did end up doing a scope swap between the 2 rifles and since doing so my scores for the past 3 weeks have jumped dramatically. On avg. right now of 55 points per week.
Even though the Helos is a bit more expensive than the Argos, it may not have been the upgrade you intended due to the reduced top end magnification (24X versus 34X). Your description of the targets in your matches suggests to me that assuming comparable glass quality, higher magnification might be of benefit to you for shooting tighter groups. The results of your scope swap test are consistent with this notion. Maybe 24X just isn't sufficient mag for your eyes to shoot as tight as you can with scope that has a little higher magnification.
There are many features including image clarity and brightness, turret adjustment range, turret repeatability, magnification range, having a reticle well-suited to the type of shooting for which the scope will primarily be used, weight, etc, that are all important considerations in a scope purchase. All must be weighed and a choice made that fits within the user's budget. More importantly, the
relative value of each feature must be weighed according to the user's needs. In your case, I suspect having a top end magnification of at least 32-40X, a relatively fine reticle, and 1/8 MOA turret clicks would be beneficial for the type of target shooting you intend to do.
FWIW - as far as I can tell, Athlon sell only one scope that satisfies the criteria I listed above, and it is currently priced similarly at EuroOptic to your 8-34 MRAD Argos. It has a 30 mm main tube like your 8-34 MRAD Argos. I personally would like the dot reticle of this scope very much for your intended purpose, but only your eyes can tell you what works best for you.
FREE SHIPPING on Athlon Argos BTR 10-40X56mm DD SF 30mm BLR SFP MOA Riflescope 214071
www.eurooptic.com
I own a couple Athlon scopes and I find their glass remarkably good for the price. To see what other options might be available, I would suggest visiting one of the following Optics websites:
Optics, scopes, & more for the precision marksman and serious hunter - Nightforce, Swarovski Optik, Vortex, Sako, Leica, Blaser, Tikka, Trijicon, & many more.
www.eurooptic.com
Expert advice and unbeatable deals on the premium sporting optics you've been hunting for! Rifle scopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, range finders, and more...
www.sportoptics.com
Once you get into the Riflescope sections, you can set the desired features and let the website show you the available choices. For example: 30X and greater magnification, 1/8th MOA turrets, price range, etc. Whatever features you think you might want can be used to get a better idea of what is out there and how much it might cost.
Another approach would be to look at what scopes are available here in the classifieds. You might be able to get a little more "value" or better features in a used scope. The key here is just to find out what's out there so you can make an informed decision.