SBE 318 basic rebuild +CAM , INTAKE, HEADS, expectations?

and if you're gonna zero deck it, then why not get some decent pistons? something that can take spray or boost? as they in for a penny, in for a pound.

i'd deck the 360 heads, run a thin head gasket and choose a small cam and roll. cheap, quick and easy. probably make something like 300hp and a nice bit of torque.
This^^^

Build the best short block you can afford then just change the top end when you want to go faster.