I had to make this same sort of choice earlier this year.
I was looking for a camp gun for my wife and a another new toy for me. After reveiwing every type of 44 mag rifle, I purchased a s/s Ruger 77/44. It's light weight, 4 round detachable mag's, not barrel heavy when loaded, very good iron sights, scope rings come with the gun & mount very easily, synthetic stock, very accurate (1 hole groups @ 25 yards), what else can I say other than she also liked this one the most, and oh yeah it's also very user freindly.
I also own a Marlin 1895GS and a 1894 Cowboy in 45 Colt.
Cam