[Deep13]

Any recommendations for a scope for a Marlin lever-action carbine in 0.357 mag./0.38 sp?

The iron sights are quite good and I certainly do not want to remove them. Obviously a pistol-caliber carbine is not intended for long-range accuracy. Still, with a so-so scope, I can usually hit a 6" circle from 100 yards. That scope is a 38mm and sits too high for a good cheek weld. I doubt I can lower it without removing the iron sight.

I main point is to be able to focus on the target, be handy and have a decent if not tremendous exit pupil for a bright image. The range can be anywhere from stopping-guy-I-sent-to-prison-who-just-got-out-and-is-in-my-house range to the 100yd. range. I also shoot .38s at the 50 ft. indoor range in the winter somethimes. (I have an inexpensive red-dot for that.) I usually use the 0.38 at short range since they are pretty cheap. I did make a real mess out of a bowling pin one time with .357 at the 50 yard range.

Should I be thinking scope or red dot? If scope, I'm wondering if a bullet drop reticle might be helpful since revolver bullets are not exactly flat shooters. I'm thinking $270ish maximum.

Here are a couple I am considering.

http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpag...eitemid=458329
This one will fit close to the receiver, but is, therefore, no so bright in low light.

http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpag...eitemid=326536
Overbudget, but I can get a better price locally.

Any other suggestions? I would greatly appreciate any advice anyone can offer.

[ArkansasHunter]

If'in it was me I would'nt spend a lot of money for an exspensive scope.
Instead I would buy a 40 mm Tasco World Class 4 power for the Marlin 357 caliber.
WHY that one ? I've got 1. 4 power and 1. 3x9 that I've had on a 30-06 and .375 caliber rifles that have been excellent scopes on these High Powered rifles for many years.
I do have to fine tune the zero every fall on one of them, but what the heck. You need to shoot your gun. Save your money and get one of these where you can buy mounts, case, cleaning kit and ammo with the differents.
I just bought a Burris 3X9 40mm scope and I honestly like the Tasco's better.
Check out this web site Quality optics and accessories from Leupold, Bushnell, Burris, Nikon and more! Have a nice day...A.H

[Deep13]

Well, that sounds good and all, but I think 40mm is too wide for this gun. The 32mm I had on there just cleared the rear iron sight with "medium" scope rings and that was too high for a cheek weld.

[ArkansasHunter]

Have you thought about a peep sight ?

[dave375hh]

Take a look at the Weaver 1 to 3X20 It's the smallest and lightest rifle scope out there. Very clear and strong, and 3X is all you need for this rifle in .357Mag.

[Deep13]

Quote:       Originally Posted by ArkansasHunter

Have you thought about a peep sight ?

Actually no. The factory open sights are very good. I am looking for something that can be used quickly at a variety of ranges and in differing lighting conditions. I do have aperture sights on my 9422 (Winch.) because the factory open sights are so bad.

Quote:       Originally Posted by dave375hh

Take a look at the Weaver 1 to 3X20 It's the smallest and lightest rifle scope out there. Very clear and strong, and 3X is all you need for this rifle in .357Mag.

I will check it out. Thanks.

[toolman]

This would be a good choice for a pistol cal. carbine. Weaver 2.5x20 Classic K2.5 Series Rifle Scope

[JoeLee]

Quote:       Originally Posted by toolman

This would be a good choice for a pistol cal. carbine. Weaver 2.5x20 Classic K2.5 Series Rifle Scope

toolman,looks like that scope was made for that 357 Marlin,giving it a balanced look plus utility.

[toolman]

Quote:       Originally Posted by JoeLee

toolman,looks like that scope was made for that 357 Marlin,giving it a balanced look plus utility.

That's my feeling as well JoeLee. A buddy of mine had one on a Puma .357 lever gun
and it was a great combination.