I own a 336 Marlin, probably about 20 years old. Eyes not being what they used to be, I scoped it with a Bushnell 3.5-10x40 3200 Compact, Leupold base and Signature rings. Shoots 1" to 1.5" groups at 100 yds all day with LeverEvolution ammo.
When mule deer season shuts down on Nov 10, out comes the 30.30 for the rest of season for whitetail. Love packin' that little gem of a rifle, cool factor hard to beat, and handles like no other.
Japanese built Winchester levers exude quality the moment you pick one up...but big bucks for sure. But if aging eyes are becoming an issue, the Marlin takes to a scope beautifully, IMHO far better than any other lever. I've handled lots of the new Marlins. The early post Remington issues have been solved, and I personally wouldn't hesitate were I in the market for a lever 30.30. The .308 Marlin Express is a great caliber if one doesn't mind dealing with very limited options on ammo.
Should add...
Mine has the cross bolt safety, and frankly, I don't mind it at all, particularly when unloading. Most bolt action rifles now allow working the bolt to unload with the safety on, which is regarded as an improvement. So why not on a lever action? IMHO, much ado about nothing. It's an additional safety feature, good! Not everyone in the field is a seasoned veteran of the sport.