Free: Contests & Raffles.
If you're thinking 45-70, the you would certainly think about 444marlin. -That would be my choice as it would be good for deer/bear/elk. If you're thinking Blacktail on the west side in the brush, then I'm a 30-30 guy, with a 44mag as second choice. The Marlins in 44mag are cheaper than the other calibers listed. Reloading or not, 44mag is plentiful and cheaper than all but the 30-30. -Steve
The reason there are so many Ruger upgrades is because they're necessary.
Don't forget about the relatively new 308Marlin... Basically a 308win in a light weight short barreled, lever gun. A pretty sweet round with the Hornady Leverevolution bullets. A 30-30 on steroids. Tops a 30-30AI in a lever gun. If you can shoot peeps, then extend your range over buckhorn irons by at least 50yds with more knock down power than the 30-30.-Steve