Pumpkinslinger,

Honestly? Stay away from Sutler's Row and do a considerable amount of research.

Read the "Watchdog". The publication reviews original items and compares and contrasts reproductions and originals. They do not take advertising so they remain independent and unbiased in their reviews. It is a good historical sources because it cites original examples of the various items and give background information. If you can't find the link let me know and I can email it to you.

I hope this helps.

Respectfully,

Gerald D. Hodge, Jr.
War Between the States Historian
Historian: 39th Georgia Volunteer Infantry Regiment
http://39thgavolinfrgt.homestead.com/39thHomepage.html