We use the .36 and the .44s in CIVIL WAR reenactment.
I ride with TERRY's TEXAS RANGERs CSA . The CAVALRY wore the pistol on the right side reversed in a flapper so they would not fall out when at full gallop. The sword goes on the left so right handers can draw it. The reason you mount a horse from the left side is because the sword is hanging on your left.

FORWARD THE COLORS,

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V/r,
Markham