With your problem I would think that loading thru the side loading gate that most levers have would be a problem. Especially with the 44 mag or 45 Colt.
If they would work,you might look at one of the Cowboy versions with a longer octagon barrel. They might be a tad above your projected budget.
Have you thought about a Winchester Model 88 in .308 they can be down loaded to lower recoil and have a detachable box magazine. They can be had for $600 or so.
