I posted this in the Optic section too. I have a Marlin 1894C 357mag. I currently have the XS Ghost Ring Sight and Scout Rail. I have a Leupold M8 2.5x IER with Duplex reticle. Using Warne quick detach scope rings. Was thinking about changing reticle from Duplex to German #4 reticle and have them set parallelex at 75yds. Shooting jacketed 158gr. SP bullets chronographed 1835fps average with 4fps. extreme spread. Will be using this combo for small game and deer within 100yds.Your opinion would be appreciated.

158 gr is a great choice. That model 357 shoots 158s well.
Please look at a hollow point such as the XTP.
I have had SP 357s not open up at the 100 yds velocity.

My research on the topic found others like the XTP also.

Great rifle. I love mine. Currently looking for another one.

700xcr, I've got the same scope on a Ruger77/357 and have thought about a reticle change. Decided to stick with the duplex because I think it works better with smaller size targets. If it was only for deer hunting I would change it. Let's face it 357's get used a lot more like a 22 than a big game, two shots a year, rifle.

Thor300Dakota, if your talking varmits, I agree. Bullets for deer are a different thing. Rifle length barrels turn all of the hollow point bullets (that I have tried-including xtp's) into varmint bullets. If you like XTP's use the flat point XTP or a good cast bullet on the larger stuff.

I would love to replace the Ruger with a nice older Marlin. Some day I'll find one.
That's my thoughts.

I bought a used target gray Leupold scout scope for $150 but when I got it I found the reticle was broken. Leupold changed it to a German #4 for free but while it was there I requested them to add VX-3 knobs which cost me $100. Basically $250 in what would otherwise be a custom shop scope and probably my favorite.