There are some nice lever action 22's out there. I have a Marlin 39A, Browning makes a nice as did Winchester. I understand Henry's are good also.
As far as a Ruger 10/22 goes, I have one and love it, I"m a lefty also and it does not seem to bother me one bit shooting it.
but it does not have the groves at the top of the receiver. I had to buy a one piece base and rings.Ruger 10-22.jpgIMG_3500.JPG