I have several Marlin and Winchester lever guns. I would ask what’s more important to you….hunting or target shooting? The reason I ask is the original buckhorns in my somewhat limited deer hunting experience were perfect for minute of deer and more importantly fast target acquisition and follow up shoots should it be needed. A rear aperture peep takes a slight bit longer to find the target. I can keep my eye on the deer as I raise the buckhorns on it. I shoot rear aperture better on paper though. The only reason I don’t have a 444 Marlin is I have a 1894 44 mag with the ranch dog .432 micro groove gas check mold at about 260 grains and I have the wonderful 1895 sporter 45-70 with pistol grip and 2/3 tube.