A Marlin 336 in 30-30 would be my desired rifle to search for based on your #1 quest. Preferably a JM stamped one, but a new production should be good as well. Just look it over well in person if you go new.
For a Marlin lever gun I'd use ranger point precision for a couple little upgrades, but most importantly get some skinner peep sights. I don't like scopes on a lever gun.
I have a few marlins. 1894c JM, Model 60 JM, and a Remlin era 1894SS in 44Mag. All flawless.
My son has a Henry youth 22 lever action and it jams a feed every now and then if he is not racking the lever correctly. He's about to turn five, so there's some practice and maturity yet to come. It functions great for me. Really fun little gun.
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