I'd say the typical range of loadings are 22 to 25 grains of FFFg. This works fine in my Uberti 1851 and 1861. Loading without a wad is OK, but then you have to lube over the ball which is messier. Wonderwads are VERY expensive so I know why you want to avoid them. I cut wads from a paper-pulp egg carton with a 3/8" punch and soak them in melted lube. I carry the wads in a plastic chawin' tabaki container. Works fine for me.
BTW, 22 grains can be measured in a fired 38 Special case.