If you don't mind the .22 being a little on the weak side for home defence, I'd say have a look at the
GSG5, it's a H&K MP5 clone in .22, hey and if the BG's see you rocking out with an MP5 they will start to query their own decision making, they come in two barrel lengths, one of which is longer and has a barrel shroud that is a sound moderator imitation, which means more accurate and more impact power. Then there is the original barrel length that has a muzzle break, from what I hear, their is the possibility to fit an air rifle sound moderator that really works, BTW., you can't use subsonic ammo if you want it to function in semi, as it eats H(igh) V(elocity) only. You will need to check the legality of sound moderators in your country/state. Google it, some people were not happy with this weapon for a lot of reason's.
The lever action .357 is a great idea, I used to have one of the cheap made in Brazilian one's, with some home loads we got it grouping at 150meters which was phenomenal, well it was in my humble opinion.
Please let us know what you get, with range report and pic's
Tony