Everything the fellow's say above is quite true.
Was along time reenactor before tried my hand at Western Acton Shooting years ago.
I went to the WA shoots to watch and see what they were using.
I noticed Rugers mostly , and Uberties ....
found a lightly used OMV Ruger in 45 & 7 1/2 ... I then ordered another, at a little gun ( independent owner) for an excellent price.
I shot these for years.
But the reenactor in me, kept shouting....
" like guns & Rugers are fine for the boys who have game !
History and the persona are more important to me. "I have a 72 OT , I pair with my now converted 2nd Gen. 1860 Army I carried in reenacting and now sports Ivory Grips.
The 72 OT has 1 piece Walnut. I use 45 Schofield in both, though the Army will chamber 45 Colt.
I do have a pair of Type 1 Richards, but they are only slightly different, front sight on the Kenny Howell is a dove tail & fixed German silver on the USPFA.
Lastly I have a newly acquired, Uberti forged frame factory conversion in 45 LC , it is different as night and day to the others.
I have not paired it as yet at a shoot, but I expect it will be with the 72 OT because of the 45 Schofield it can also chamber.
Follow your heart in what you like ( the OT is a great choice )
Might is suggest a Uberti 1860 Army cut to 2 1/2 inch. with an R&D Cylinder.
Granted it will be 45 but with 45 Cowboy special it will be about the same felt recoil as your 38 Spcl.
5 1/2 OT.
Very cool, as a hide away for a Pinkerton , "ol Dallas Strodmeyer" carried one with his 72 OT.