I always thought the vintage Marlin 39A was the "best .22 lever gun" too, but I've now grown to think that the Winchester 9422 is right up there with the vintage 39A. While the Marlin is a full sized "mans gun", the fit, finish and materials of the 9422 are the top of the line! The accuracy of the Winchester is as good and probably better than the 39A, but at the least - certainly no slouch! Over-all the 9422's (especially the XTR models) are impeccable and just a beautiful, buttery smooth, accurate and very high quality gun.

If you are trying to decide between the Marlin39A and the Winchester 9422, my advise would be : GET BOTH!