Rather have a Marlin 1895 in .45-70 that I could actually shoot. Nothing like a lever-action cannon.
Dad's got an 1895 with a 27" barrel and full-length 10 round (instead of 6) magazine, apparently one of only two made. It has seven notches in the stock too. These are still made new, but are also rather plentiful in shootable condition, just not a nigh-unique one such as his.
Less range, but same or better terminal ballistics, .45-70 having better tolerance for hot loads, in a weapon 10" shorter and a pound lighter.
In real application of owning firearms such as these, a bear <30 yards away is a much bigger problem than a bear >300 yards away.
You'd say 'thats just a Winchester'? Pffft. ***' pea-shooters compared to this.