Rick, while I can appreciate the love of handling the rifle before you purchase, take a look at Gunbroker and GunAuction as well. Sometimes you can find a real doozy and if no one is looking or paying attention, get it much cheaper. I've gotten 2 2nd model '73s that way and acquired enough parts to start assembling a third. One of those was an old Colorado rifle with set triggers that still work. Had to repair the toggle links, but it's a dang fine rifle now that its back up and running.
44s will be the hardest to find and get inexpensively, but don't sell the 38-40s short. While mine are all 44-40, there are a number of the guys around that swear by the old 38 WCF. So look around, see what's available and what you can afford. Good luck with your search.