RE: what is better for a first time .22 buyer?
Lever action! Its what I have, in a .22 I really don't see any real advantage to bolt, semi auto, lever.....we're not shooting 500yds with these things. Mostly targets, maybe a squirrel. Get what you like, as far as differences in performance I really can't imagine there being any. I believe a lever is faster to cycle than a bolt, isn't the bolt the slowest of all actions? just very solid.....I dig my lever, total cowboy feel....haha, also semi autos I think you may have the urge to just blast like a full auto which I believe isn't very good for barrel life? though again we're not shooting 500yds and you dont sound like youre looking to do .22 competitions...etc....so, get whatever you like the look/feel of.