"I haven't left, Just sitting back in shock and awe . I knew that this subject might generate a fair amount of traffic but I had no idea that it borders on religion for some. I guess I need to stir the pot some more. Ranchman set me to thinking that I should give some further ideas of what I want. Price is important and I expect I will spend $500 to $750 for a fair rifle. Of course I would like to spend as little as possible. Range is probably not as important as stopping power. years ago I was treed by a razorback while hiking in Arkansas. I don't think I can run that fast anymore, and personally don't want to find out . I would prefer to stand and fight. I am leaning toward a rifle that shoots a .357 or .44 round so that I could use the same ammo in a pistol. The lever action is another preference. (too many years growing up watching the Rifleman). I hope this gives some more focus to the thread. I am still flexible and willing to be talked into (or out of) anything."
This is totally different from your initial post. A 357 or 44 mag in my opinion is not enough for hogs. Neither round is going to "reach out and touch" anything and neither has sufficient stopping power for an enraged boar while shooting on the run. Carefully placed shots under 50 yrds, yeah, but quick shots while being charged or out beyond 100 yrds, not likely you can place them that well. Since you do not know your requirments, I don't either, good luck.
Those Marlin short barrel cowboy type lever guns are really nice rifles for short range uses in brush or as a camp rifle or while shooting off a horse, so many guns, so little time. J
