I started deer hunting with a Marlin 336 in 30-30 and have had several 30-30s since. Right now I have one 30-30 and a 444 Marlin which is a blast to shoot. Have taken many deer, hogs, coyotes, turkey with both. Have killed one axis at 250 yards with the 444. I have several bolt actions that I love but the levers get their fair share of time in the field. Last year I took the 444 to Colorado as an extra in case anyone in our group needed it. Mu bolts are all left handed and I thought the lever action 444 would be a good back up for anyone. Dure glad to see this thread alive. My levers now all wear scopes as these eyes are not what they once were.