Looking at getting a Leupold VX-1 2-7 33mm scope for a ruger 10/22. Any opinions/recommendations between the two reticles. It will mainly be for target and small game hunting.

I have a Leupy 4.5x14x50 with the duplex reticle. I lose the reticle in low light before its too dark to see. For my needs, I wish I had the heavy duplex. For yours where you'll be plinking paper and squirrel heads, I'd go with the duplex for the finer crosshairs.

Reticle choices are quite personal...what one person loves, another may hate. I'd suggest you go to the Leupold Custom Shop website and "play" a bit. I rather like the CPC, Post & Duplex and the German #1 and #4.

Reg duplex is my favorite. I had a Leupold heavy and hated it. I had the worst time getting on target.

Wayspr... you can send your scope to Leupold and they will change it for you for a nominal amount. I didn't know that until after I had sold my heavy duplex... had the same scope as you, and sold it to my cousin. He ended up not liking it either and got the duplex reticle put in.

What type of small game huntin?

A matter of personal preference. I prefer the heavy plex. I hunt medium game such as deer and feral hogs. Some time coyotes, but not much. For me , for whatever reasopn, the heavy plex such as a German #4 or #8 draws me to intended target quickly ... and for sure in very low light is much more visable.

For small game such as squirrelas and rabbit, and taget the fine plex might be better. A heavy plex might cover up too much of the critter.