RE: Winchester 94 30-30
I love my '94, and while I've never owned a Marlin I have carried/shot them. The marlin feels like more gun, but its also heavier and bulkier, and most hunters don't carry 30-30s for sitting in a stand.
Like others have said the 94 may never be built again, and if you don't like it you shouldn't have much trouble getting your money back selling it.