Re using cast iron rings?
Ok, so the final decision is im going to pretend I never saw that video and go with my plan A.
My plan A is to replace: rings, main bearings, rod bearings, cam bearings, timing chain, oil pump and gaskets. All of which i have on hand
I know for a fact the engine is in spec in regard to taper and cylinder measurements, I have a bore gauge and micrometers. I even have my own cam bearing tool and I've used it plenty.
I was never trying to "get cheap" with this engine, I was simply thumbing through YouTube to make sure I didn't miss anything on the prep and ran across that video. Then I started doubting myself because that particular youtuber has been building engines since long before I was born so I thought maybe he's on to something I didn't know about.
Based on the replies, I'm going to trust myself and do this engine the way I was taught in auto school.