My opinion, Marlin. But it's a personal preference, just like everyone elses answer.
as an 1894C owner, I can say anyone that's ever shot it has enjoyed the heck out of it. The only jam it's had came from an individual not cycling the lever fully. Pointed that out and of he went having more fun.
Why? Accurate, durable, fun, easier to take down than a Winny or Rossi. (One screw and out comes the lever and the bolt). Typically easier for most people to work on than a Winny.
Despite what CraigC says, Winnys and Marlins are on a par when it comes to durability.
As far as a "more refined" design. . . it all depends. If you consider simplicity more refined, it would be the Marlin. If you consider slimmer lines more refined, it would be the Winny and it's knock offs.
Winny is NOT lighter than a Marlin.
These numbers come from specifications listed for each rifle at Bud's gun shop.
Winchester 92 is listed at 6.5 lbs
Marlin 1894 Cowboy with a 20" barrel is 6.5 lbs (this is the Marlin comparable to the Win 92 the OP listed)
Rossi with a 20" barrel is 6.1 lbs
Marlin 1894C with 18" barrel is 6.0 lbs
Henry checks in at a whopping 8.7 lbs
But then, ligher may or may not be a benefit. The bigger /stronger you are the easier it is to stabilize a heavier gun. There is a crossover point where a heavier gun is better for an individual or a lighter gun is better. That is determined
by you. Balance also can change how guns handle relative to each other. You won't notice an extra half pound if the heavier gun is better balanced than the lighter one.
As for Marlin's and what they feed. Keep cartridge length within the range listed and they typically feed 38's and 357's equally well. Which is why they won't feed 38 special wadcutters, too short.
Also, do you want a top eject or side eject?
Top: Winny, Rossi, Uberti
Side: Marlin, Henry
CraigC
Why do people have an undying need to believe that their choice is "better" (in terms of quality) than all the rest???
I don't know, tell my why
you do the same thing you are chastising other people for, and maybe that will answer your own question.
Final answer to the OP is:
They are all fun to shoot. Go to a gun store and see how they feel for you. Then get the one
you'll enjoy the most. Try them with different barrel lengths if you can. In fact, see if you can take a look at a Henry too. Then make your decision.
Other info
http://www.chuckhawks.com/compared_big-boy_1894C_1873.htm