Richard Holdener to test the Piston Reversal theory

True..... But!!!....
What kind of “Class” in racing would require stock pistons? Ether today or yesteryear?
As mentioned above.... the super right on budget would seem these kinds of tips and tricks.
In my head, if I had to run a stock piston & bore size, then the cams I’m looking at are low lift.... stock-super stock class type cams I think. Long duration and stock lobe lift.

True for the “LA” engine, not so much for a Magnum engine, mileage dependent maybe? IDK!

All in all, a good used core is going to be a Magnum IMO and I think you could build quite a runner with the base long block.
Those low lift, long duration cams are even more problematic, its more the duration that gets you in trouble with piston to valve clearance rather than actual lift in my experience.