If I could only have one lever action rifle it would be a 45 Colt. If I bought factory ammo it would be the 44 magnum.

Both cartridges are very effective at any woods range(plus). Low recoil. And inexpesive to shoot. As well as extremely efective on any game at thos distances.

If I wanted it scoped it would be a Marlin 1894. No scope then i would go with an 1894 or 1892 Winchester. Prefer the 1892.

But my favorite lever action is a Winchester 1885(Low Wall) in 45 Colt. Tom.