Even though the Marlin might be more accurate out of the box, the 10/22 is a much better gun in the long run.
I agree you should handle them first, because everyone is different. I like the 10/22 and find the "fat" stock fits and feels better in my hand.Handle them before you buy anything... The 10/22 sits in your hand like a beached whale! That fat magazine = a fat rifle.
I would rather have a nice 50 year old Remington 550 than a new 60, 10/22, or 597....nice walnut, , steel with good blueing, and no plastic.