I finally got around to cutting the loading port in the recoil shield! Having reviewed other shooters efforts to port their guns free-hand with mixed results. I opted to build a jig fixture to hold a small air moto tool and clamp the revolver in place for cutting.
I am quite pleased with the results, and looking forward to porting this revolvers mate very soon!
As for load development I have just received my Cowboy 45 Special brass and Barnstormer 125gr HB Boolets and have a Lee 160 gr mold on order. Should be interesting!