I am building a 235 with a mild performance cam. What is it's best RPM operating band? How low can you go without lugging the engine and what is a reasonable redline?

I need to know this to calculate the best rear end gear ratio.

I just bought a T5 transmission out of a Chevy S-10 and need to figure out it's gear ratios. I also bought a 12-bolt from a 71 Chevelle. It has 2.73 gears with a posi in it. I am going to assume a tire diameter of about 27-28 inches. So what is a 235 good for? 1000-2500 RPM or more like 1500-3000 RPM. I am just guessing. Let me know your experience.

Thanks