The "better" first gun
In my opinion, the better first gun would be either an 1851 Colt Navy, an 1860 Colt Army or an 1858 Remington New Army. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to clean, repair, disassemble and reassemble and safe. They do not require the use of a cylinder loading stand, although some people, myself included, like to use a revolver loading stand just for convenience. They are authentic, look good and they are reliable and rugged.
The only disadvantages to the Cattleman in bp are the need for the cylinder loading stand and the fact that it is not an authentic reproduction. It meets all the other criteria I mentioned.
I would also seriously consider a Ruger Old Army if you can get one. It is not an authentic reproduction of any particular early weapon; in fact it is modern in almost every way except for the bp design. And it is relatively expensive. It is, however, the finest bp gun made by anyone at any price, in my opinion.