I think my lifters are shot

Did you pump them up before installing them?
If not, pull the distributor and drive the oil pump with an electric drill to build up oil pressure. That should pump them up pretty quick.
If you have to pull the manifold, you can check them like this;
hold the lifter in question in your hand. Try to depress the plunger with a push rod. If you can depress it (feels spongy) submerge the lifter in oil and again depress the plunger with the push rod. The lifter should pump up and get solid really quickly. Repeat with the other lifters and install them.