I'm the goofy bastard that still thinks a 30/30 lever is great 'truck' gun.
Well I must be a goofy bastid as well. I know its a new toy but for a nice truck gun/hiking gun try a Marlin 336 in 30-30 or 1894 in 357 or 44 mag. A used one will run you about 20% of the cost and you can use the extra cash for your other projects. With a little practice, the lever guns make quite a home/self defense weapon.
If you just want one, then go for it though in my limited experience, I like the M-1a better.