I don't own one but we sell this model along with a few others including the Rossi (Rio), Marlin (a couple of 336 models) and the Henry's (H009 and H009B).
We don't normally carry the Winchester 94's because they are just too pricey and the market too small.
The Mossberg, Rossi and Marlin 336 (with scope included) all come in within about 100 bucks of each other.
The Henry is hands down the nicest in terms of fit/finish/wood etc, but it's also starting to approach the cost of a Win 94.
Between the Mossberg, Rossi and Marlin I would choose the Marlin - it's the nicest (fit/finish/wood) plus has a scope already mounted - and even if you want better optics, the mounts/rings are already there for the same price as the Mossberg.
The one "peeve" I have with the Mossberg is the "requirement" to keep the lever under "hand pressure" to allow the gun to fire - you have to hold it tight to the stock or the trigger won't move. Now it may be a safety feature (or something like that) and you may get used to it, but in my opinion the very nature of a "brush gun" is to get off a super quick shot that is unlikely to present itself again and I don't need "one more thing to do" to ensure the rifle will fire.
I don't remember if there were any quirks with the Rossi or not. Have never sold one so can't even point to a customer who has said good/bad/ugly or other.
I own a Win 94 (1957 model) but wouldn't recommend a new Mod 94 (not worth the money). If you don't mind spending a bit I would go with a Henry.
If that's more than you want to spend then (my opinion), the only lever worth looking at (in 30-30 anyhow) is a Marlin 336 (scoped model - better value than the bare 336)......
