I use Pietta's, simply because that's what the shop had in 1851 Navy. I prefer the Navy barrels over the other types. Remind me of some cap guns I had when I was a kid (not cap and ball, just cap
).
I haven't found anything wrong with the Pietta brand. I have had the spring break on one of my pistols, but the other one is running strong and it wasn't even the mainspring, just the cylinder latch spring.
There are some technical differences between the Pietta's and original guns, and I don't know how much this will effect you, or how well other brands pull it off. The 1851 Navy and the 1860 have the same grips. IIRC they weren't meant to. IIRC further, the 1860/1861 grips are right, and they are wrong on the 1851 Navies.
But don't take my word for it.
I shoot with guys who use Uberti and Piettas 1858's and no one has issues with theirs. I'd go as far to say there is less difference between the two companies than is worth worrying about. Both make quality products.
IIRC Pietta use slightly larger nipples than Uberti, meaning #10 caps stay on better.
PS and another +1 to that Cabelas special. It sounds pretty darn good.
KBK