RE: 32 or 36 cal
I have a Traditions side lock in .32 that is a tack driver. They made a Crocket and a Deerhunter model. I use the .32 for squirrel (10 grains 3F) and rabbit (10-15 grains). This is about as cheap as .22LR if you cast your own ball. These will throw a ball 100 yards with about an 8" drop with a 20 grain load but I keep my shots under 50 yards for most hunting 25 being even surer. The Deerhunter series isn't fancy just nicely finished and came with daylight sights and a nice price.
Rock Lock