I would rank them this way .
1. Athlon , I personally think it has better glass for a very similar price range with the Hawke . And the one I tested tracked a little better than the Hawke higher end scopes I've used .
2. Hawke , it's close enough that I don't think either of the Hawke or the Athlon could be a mistake . I would pick the one that has the features and reticle you like best .
3. Vortex , at a price range quite a bit lower than the other two it's not optically in the same class. It's a great scope for it's price ...But can't compete with $600-$700 scopes .
That's just my opinion. If I didn't have it in my budget for the higher priced scopes I could roll with the Vortex and be very happy .
If I had the extra money , I'd buy the Athlon Midas Tac .