You stated a break action is less finicky yet you can not back up that statement with any facts. Shooting matches are a direct reflection of inherent accuracy of a specific action style. Bolt actions dominate competition and vastly popular in centerfire hunting rifles.

I would love to see any facts you have to dispute this.

Break actions (in general) are also not the easiest to access the trigger assembly. Its nearly impossible to remove some without gunsmith skills or tools. The only simple solution is to remve the rear stock and hose it out with gun scrubber. Then HOPE you got it clean.

I can run a shotgun brush through a Knight or similar bolt action and clean the entire breach with one tool. Unlike a break action with odd angle nooks and "crannies". I could dunk the whole breach in a bucket or even a 1 liter bottle if i was so inclined and all i need to remove is one bolt from the trigger assembly.

Easier to clean? Hardly unless just swabbing the barrel means "clean".

Less finicky? Hardly

Simple, yes they sure are simple and a decent choice for a novice in that regard.

The facts dont support the entire conclusion other than a quick release breach plug.

First time buyer who isnt sure he will even like a ML. Get a new Optima in SS. (Assuming a closed breach and 209 primers are legal in your area) You wont be out much $$ if you dont like the sport or want to upgrade later. PACNW legal, look at the Knight Bighorns or even a older used White Rifle. They are about as simple as it gets and built like tanks.