Any major factory 158 gr lead or 148 gr wadcutter load will be well under pressure limits for even your 1899.

If yours was rarely shot but the nickel finish is damaged (flaked, peeling, pitted, etc.), that is the result of black powder fouling that was not cleaned promptly - another plus for modern .38 Special loads to be used.

__________________
Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220