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Lever-action? I've never seen one, but that's certainly not to say they don't exist. Had a friend with a pump-action .22 though... maybe a Remington? All I remember is the entire thing weighed about two pounds, IDFK how. Brass and aluminum, I think... not an ounce of steel in the gun.

There are several companies that made (and still produce) lever action .22 long rifle guns.

If your budget is as high as $700.00, you can get a great used Winchester or Marlin rifle. You can buy an Italian made clone of the Winchester for well under $350.

Marlin 39A in action

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvCzHx1Fdv4

The Winchester Model 9422 is the best of their line. Sadly discontinued in '05, a used one should be easy to come by.

http://www.vintagepistols.com/range_report_winchester_9422.html