Pietta Griswold and Gunnison?

So I have been watching Hell on wheels, and that show introduced me to the Griswold, cabellas has a pietta clone for $209,

http://www.cabelas.com/pistols-pietta-griswold-gunnison-36-caliber-revolver.shtml

This would be my first bp arm, I have always wanted a revolutionary era flintlock, maybe from a good kit but this cap and ball revolver looks like an easier introduction to black powder, I like the brass look and southern lineage, (like me) edging out the colt the griswold is patterned after. but is there Any downside to the brass frame? is it a weakness? are these decently made? is everything else effectively the same as a colt pattern?

In a word, yes, the brass frame is a 'weakness'. It does require that so-called moderate powder loads be used to prevent eventual frame damage. Such loads are in the range of 15 to no more than 20 grains/volume of real black powder for the .36 cal revolvers and 15 to no more than 25 grains/volume of real black powder for the .44 cal revolvers.

Other than that they are functionally identical to the steel frame versions.

What Mykeal said +1

As long as you treat it right and don't abuse it with heavy loads, it will last you a long time. I would not use 777 in it because grain for grain, T7 is 15% hotter than BP. The Pietta reproductions are well made gun, and the G&G is no exception.

Brass tarnishes very quickly after firing. You can keep it new looking with Flitz, or if you like the old look, let it tarnish.

Yep, I think Hell on Wheels is gonna cost me some money too. Got me hankerin' after an 1866 again. :)

I'm watching Hell On Wheels on Netflix, right now. I'd like a Griswold, too.
That show is as addictive as The Walking Dead.

Here are a few 'Confederate' revolvers for your viewing enjoyment:

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c86/fingersmcgee/ConfederateRevolvers006.jpg