I have both the 38-55 and the 45-70.
It is my humble opinion that by far, the 38-55 is the better piece. I base this on both performance and "look". The "Target" simply has the right "look". I get a lot of positive comments from non H&R shooters. (some with very high end rifles) They all agree, the H&R Target is a very nicely turned out rifle.
I shoot cast loads using Pyrodex RS. Currently I'm dropping 55 grs of FF over a # 210 Large Rifle primer, Winchester brass, a .30 veg wad (soaked in bore butter) and I top it off with a 249 gr Lyman # 375248 cast lead bullet sized to .378.
I have found these to be VERY accurate, low recoil and one heck of a lot of fun to make and shoot. Clean-up however is mandatory!!!!
Good luck and please remember that the load mentioned is not recommended nor endorsed by any manufacturer nor is it proven to be safe.. It is simply what I have put togeather and is NOT recommended and is only listed here for reference. Thanks.