RE: lever action
If you don't like the .30-30, the Marlin leveractions are available in a few other classic cartridges. The .35Rem, .444Mar, .450Mar, or .45-70 are all very capable hunting rounds (as is the .30-30).
If you're turned away from the .30-30 because of it's "weak" reputation, forget about it...the .30-30 is a VERY capable cartridge. I've used it for deer clear out to 200yrds with no arguements by my harvests.