Thank-you very much. Given my desire for a lever action that “does everything,” including defense, would you recommend the Marlin .357 or .44 over the 30-30?
My brother has taken a deer with the 44mag marlin. He has wooded land and he is never farther than about 100 yards, he said that it seemed to hit hard and the deer went down immediately.
I don’t think the range would be any where neer the 30-30 though.
If you want a good woods/self defense gun (up to 100 yards) and intend to purchase a hunting pistol, the .44 magnum (1894) is a better choice if you value using the same ammo in both firearms.
If recoil is a concern and compatibility with your SW 38 is desired, the .357 Marlin (1894C) would be recommended. Can be used on small game with the same ammo you use in your .38, and can be loaded with .357 cartridges for deer and such up to 75 yards or so (hell they used to shoot polar bears with .357 when it first came out). Either round can be used for the 2 legged pests for self defense.
The 30-30 was a favorite of Col. Cooper for home defense because it is light, short, fast, and can be used for both intermediate and short range work.
Personally I couldn't make up my mind, so I have one of each (though the missus claimed the .357 for herself because of the lighter weight and shorter OAL).
If I was buying a single rifle, the 30-30 is your best bet due to low cost and almost universal ammo availability.