I use Panther, and like the quality of their tents, though I am sure there are other good makers out there.
I sell Panther tents as a way of helping locals get into the hobby/sport. I don't pursue this as a business, and I AM NOT trying to sell you anything.
With that said, there are many considerations in buying a tent. From experience, I will offer a few:
I have been camping in a big wall tent for three years. I love the space, and last week it withstood a tremendous 2-hour thunderstorm that dumped 2" of rain on our camp and winds over 40 mph. One tent blew flat during the storm,and the camper spent the rest of the night in his truck. I remained warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the entire event. The only problem I have with the wall tent is that it takes a lot of time and effort to put up and down. Lots of poles, ropes and stakes. I do mean lots! Unless I am going to use it for several days, I dread all that work. I can erect it by myself, but it is much easier with a helper or two, which I don't always have. Maybe I am just getting lazy in my old age, but this is another consideration when choosing a tent style.
For shorter events (and when my 8 year-old son isn't with me) I camp in a Panther Medium Wedge. Like all wedges, regardless of their size, it takes less than 5 minutes to erect, and about the same to take down. It is simplicity at its' finest! (5 of my buddies also rode out the thundertorm in Panther Wedges with no problems.)
It all depends on what YOU want, and how much work you want to put into it.
The "period correctness" depends mostly on YOUR area and the time period you reenact. Here in KY, and most of the "old west" Tipis are not PC, but that changes as you move farther west.
Except for the strictest Rondys, a wall or wedge tent will be acceptable, regardless of added features. So, I highly recommend sod flaps, even though they are not PC. I also like overlapping door flaps to keep out wind, water and "critters". Brass grommets are another feature that add to the life of the tent. Keep these features in mind, because Panther's PC Military Wedge tents DO NOT come with any of them. They must be added during the ordering process. I also prefer both front and back doors.
With the Rondy season in full swing, there should be some great opportunities to pick up a good quality used tent at a local event. I have seen some real bargains since the economy turned downward. It is an added bonus to be able to see the tent and most will come with all the poles, ropes, and stakes. (Which will cost extra on a new tent!)
Happy hunting! A good tent will make great memories. Use it well, and use it often!