I have a scoped Marlin 336 and a Winchester 94 with the flip up tang sight in 30-30, but also have a Marlin 1895 guide model in 45/70. I take them all hunting and do eenie meenie miney moe before heading into the woods. It's a tough choice if you're just choosing one. I think you have it right, buy the 45/70 first then wait and buy the 30-30 from someone after the season. Good Luck!