They hold that shot well. As long as the timing is pulled enough and it doesn't bust the ring lands, its fine.
Op I'm in the same boat. I joined a brand specific forum for my truck and started to do all my own maintenance. Then I installed my own mods. The great thing about forums is they have meet ups on occasions and for a fee of beer and pizza you should be able to get some help. Also, invest in tools and manuals. I'm currently working on basic wiring myself.
It all depends on opinions really. I feel Japan and europe were, still are, and always will be ahead of the game. The nostalgia behind these cars is much better imo. Sure who doesn't like a na hearty v8, That ill give to them. but the design, and the size of most american muscle is gross. They should have been in the boat engineering game. Nothing beats a 71 gtr imo.