I have levers in 22 LR (Browning), 22 mag (Winchester), 357 mag (Marlin), 30-30 (Marlin saddle gun) 308 (BLR 81).
The 22 is a real blast. It has a short throw, so all you have to do is open and close your hand to chamber a new round. Lots of fun, real fast.
The 22 mag is a nice and very accurate rifle, but the 22LR is more fun.
The 357 are very fun guns. It's one of those guns, that when you run out of ammo you are disappointed. I had a marlin 44 mag, and it was a good shooter. But it was one of those that you shot a little then put down and pick up a "fun" gun. The 357 is the one you would pick up.
The 30-30 I got because it's a rule. If you were born in the south you have to have a 30-30 or they make you become a Yankee!
Seriously I cut my teeth on the 30-30. My marlin has the straight stock and a saddle ring. If Marlin ever makes their stainless 30-30 with a straight stock I would jump on it with both feet. Till then I'll stick with my saddle gun.
My BLR 308 has a Burris 1.5 to 6 scope which makes it a great little package. It's handy in the woods or in a open field. It's my number one hunter, and has taken many deer. The detachable magazine makes it easy to clear when you are getting into or out of your stand. It deadly accurate.
There is something AMERICAN about a lever action. Personally I think it is a faster action than a bolt, and it easier to stay on target as you chamber a new round, but that is my opinion. There is just something about jacking that lever. It related to racking the slide on a pump shotgun. It means you are serious. OH did I mention they are just fun to shoot?