RE: lever or bolt action, why one or the other?
Browning makes some great lever guns. I wouldn't hesitate to use one.
Contrary to other's opinions, I have found the Remington 7600 pump to be very reliable. In fact, that is my favorite whitetail gun.
I have used lever action 30-30's and 44 mag, Remington pumps and an assortmant of bolt actions and single shots. I take good care of my guns and keep the ammo and actions clean in the field. Poor cleaning causes most jamming problems that I have seen.
The only "failure" that I have had in 34 years of hunting, not related to dirt, was about 20 years ago when a Remington 700 bolt gun slam fired when I was unloading it. Remington is finally recalling these guns. We all have our experiences and biases.
As far as accuracy goes, the Browning levers and the Remington 7600 are as accurate out of the box as most bolt guns. My experience has biased me concerning the accuracy of Marlin and Winchester lever guns. Others will have different opinions.
NRA Life Member since 2003