Suggestion on what to pick up next — Lever vs. Bolt vs. more SKS?

Stoa

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Hi Everyone.

Looking for some advice on what to pick up next, along with a few broader questions on buying strategy and overall setup.

Sorry in advance that I don't have much history or knowledge on this topic, please correct me if asking the wrong questions.

Current lineup:
Ruger 10/22
Type 56 SKS
Maverick 88
Benelli M4

I feel like I’ve got the “Canadian basics” covered with the 10/22, SKS, and Maverick 88. The M4 was an easy choice given its reputation (I also considered the 1301 but went with the M4). Now I’m looking to round things out.

Lever vs. Bolt vs. more SKS?

Lever:
I’ve been considering a Marlin 1894 .357. There is also S&W, Henry, and Chiappa? Not sure how they compare. At the same time, I’m wondering if a lever gun is more of a “fun” rather than something practical.

Bolt:
A bolt-action seems like it might be the a better choice between practical and fun. Which brand or/and calibres to recommend?

SKS:
Another (better) SKS could be an option for practical, especially with potential future restrictions, but it may be redundant.


Realistically, I don’t expect to buy much more beyond that unless regulations change. So 1–2 more mid/higher-end firearms for long-term, casual use — ideally things that won’t become obsolete or need replacing in a few years. So what do you suggest in this case?

Casual use, mostly range... Maybe/ideally hunting as well if we get into it in the future.


Other considerations...
My wife prefers the Maverick 88 over the M4 mainly due to weight, but she doesn't like the .22 after firing the 7.62/12G... Which makes me think option like a trapper lever action could make sense?

I’m considering standardizing calibres where possible... I’m open to adding new calibres, with mindful of overall long term ammo cost/availability.

For bipods and optics — is it worth investing in higher-end brands, or are budget/Amazon options generally sufficient for casual use? I’ve heard cheaper ones may not hold up well over time, especially with recoil.

Anything else I should be factoring in before making a decision?

Appreciate any input on what you’d prioritize next and how you approach calibre selection, timing, and overall setup. Thank you in advance in case I don't respond in time.
 
Most people consider winchester levers to be the best.
I have a Henry 357 and love it.
Get a bolt action in 223
 
I've just done quite a bit of research on this as well, and you seem to be in the same boat as me (target shooting with maybe some hunting). My next buy will be a bolt action 308, either a Tikka T3x or Ruger American II.

As far as optics go, I read everywhere that you're better off getting something good. That being said, I have limited experience, I've not been shooting for long.
 
I’d get a bolt or lever since you already have an sks
If you do decide on another sks get a Russian one since you already have a Chinese one
Maybe a Henry Homesteader in 9mm might be something to consider too
 
Thank you all for the advice—really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences. Looks like Bolt is next on the list for me!
 
Everyone should have a reasonably capable bolt gun. Caliber is a tossup personal choice but it should be something that can kill stuff to at least 500 yds. You never know when you will need to kill stuff from a safe distance. 🤷‍♂️ :p
 
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