The current asking price for the Marlin carbines is astronomical. Supply and demand, I guess, but with demand pushing the price above $700 ($900 is ridiculous) I do wonder why they aren't making them currently.
I paid $300 for mine, ages ago. Other possible options (all used) is the Timberwolf pump (if you can find one), converted Winchester 92s, or the Rossi clone.
Another option, not mentioned, probably because everyone is so fixed on repeaters, is the single shot. A Contender carbine allows for the ballistic advantage of the longer barrel, easy scope mounting providing greater, more easily used range and accuracy over the handgun. Plus, you still have the handgun if you need rapid fire close range support.
one gun I passed on, and shouldn't have, ages ago, was a Ruger No.1 in .357 Mag. Should have bought it. oh well...
also, the loading gate on the side was originally the "King's Patent Loading gate" and what turned eventually Henry rifles into Winchesters.
If it bites your fingers, use another round to push the rounds in with.