It doesn`t really matter if you need a new gun or not, because you don`t and you know it!!! The thing is do you want a new gun and can you afford it, and pay no attention to what the wife says.
Personally I prefer handguns because they are easy to carry. I pack a revolver when driveing deer and an Encore when when ambush hunting, unless in muzzle loading season. It does sound like you need a new lever gun. For more range I would recomand the .357 max., or the .460 Ruger, if they make the lenth requirements.