I have a friend who recommended the Sightron S-Tac line of scopes as a good option for an under $500 scope that will track well. The 3-16x42 is right in the magnification range I'm interested in (a little more than I need on the top end, though). Anyone here have experience with this line of scopes? I know SWFA is all the rage, but it's nice to have multiple options.

I have two and both have performed perfectly for me. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend

I dont track mine, but it is pretty nice glass. It is heavy though. I use it on an air gun because it has close focus.

They are good to go! I used one (4-20) at a shooting school on a Ruger Target/Varmint in 6.5 Creed, the scope tracked well to 1000 yards.

I like mine and it has tracked well so far and don't expect that to change. Don't think of it as heavy at 23 oz.

Probably selling one of mine as moving to Nightforce NXS for my 260. May keep it though for a 17hmr. Never know