The design has been in production since 1897 (as a take-down) and is nicely made of steel. Some folks don't like the cross-bolt safety on the newer ones and the rebounding hammer likewise draws criticism...living in a lawyer-dominated world has its drawbacks. My 39A was made in 1978 and bought from a friend. It is a joy to shoot.
That said, the friend really likes his Winchester 94/22
Have a good look at each of the rifles and shoot them if you can before deciding.
Lever-action .22's are fun
