If you' re looking for a good lever calibre - go with the 30-30, it' s responsible probably for more deer on the table than any other cartridge in history. If you want more power go with the Marlin in 45-70. Great knock down power out to about 100 - 150 yards. Both cartridges have been around a lot longer than the others out there and will more than likely be around for our grandchildren.