There was a thread on this over at "gunsmithing" and in "winchester rifles and shotguns" forums. I hope I don't have to fight this feature on the new 94 44mag that I got ordered. IF I ever get it, it's been a month now. Wal-mart gave me the run around on the Traditional, so I opted for the Trails End. I found out the saddle ring can be plugged so the only thing different then will be I won't get checkering. Back to the lever squeezing safety issue, I haven't had it on any lever I've ever owned or shot. Below is an article I think all you might like to read. Wish I knew how much those old stock parts would cost. Or if one could even find them.
I tried but couldn't get that to link direct. I guess we'll have to go there then clik tech notes to the left then hit archives, then select "M94 lower tang swap" by Joseph Miller.
http://www.beartoothbullets.com/tech_notes/archived_tech_notes.php/42