I own the 77/.357, have owned the Marlin .44 and .357. Neither of the Marlins would hold a candle to the Ruger in terms of accuracy.
The little Ruger is just has handy as the Marlins. It is more user friendly, with a scope mounted.
I do a lot of walk around hunting and the .357 is great for close range work.
I've got a couple box blinds in East Tx. that are in thick growth and both have short 75-80 yard shooting lanes. The 158 grain jacketed flat points are deadly on porkers and small deer at these ranges.