Head, I know exactly what you mean. I have a Marlin Guide Gun in .45-70 that has one of those silly cross block safetys. I never use it for a couple reasons. 1. I carry the rile in the 1/2 c0ck position and 2. I am a lefty and its really awkward to operate it. You either have to use your off hand (the right one) or move your left hand up to the receiver and push it over with your thumb.
Quite frankly, I do prefer a hammer gun. And, I don't mean to offend anyone, but there is just something about a bolt action ML that just does not appeal to me. Not in the sense of an accuracy or funtionality but more asthetically.