Which is the best "1 rifle" for nonexpert homeowner?

[22-rimfire]

I'll stick with a .357 lever rifle paired with 686 or GP100. You can bring more ammo compared to larger calibers.

I think this is very good advice and the 357 the right caliber for the job. The Marlin 1894's are real nice rifles and are very easy to shoulder quickly. You can also use lower powered 38spl ammo as well. It builds a lot of flexibility into the whole equation. I'd like to get a 1894 one of these days myself. Just remember, it only takes one well placed shot for shooting most 4-legged animals as well as the 2-legged prey animals.

 

[Big Bill]

CAS shooters, please correct me if I am wrong.

It's SASS (Single Action Shooting Society.

http://www.sassnet.com/

My recommendation is to get a Marlin Model 1894 .45 Colt Cowboy gun in .45 to match your SA Bisley.

http://www.marlinfirearms.com/Firearms/Cowboy/1894_45Colt.asp

 

[30mag]

.30-30 lever action sounds like it would be the most versatile rifle for you.