What 350 did you end up going with?

[1980c10]

I'm not arguing that ls motors don't have great potential; it's just not time to discount the tried and true gen 1 small block. As far as what does it take to make 393; I listed my motor specs above. with a bigger cam, stroker kit, single plane manifold and some more compression the numbers could be a lot more impressive but it's a driver not a racer.
A gen 1 small block will bolt right up, have more parts available(more options) and be more budget friendly and in my opinion you'll get a little more dollar for dollar.
Ultimately; the important thing is to match the parts up right in any build for your goals.

[team39763]

I didn't mean to diss the Gen 1 either.  What I should have said was if he has interest in an LS swap and he has the budget...he should go for it.  You can make really good HP with a lot less parts involved.  For example he could get an LS3 and swap in a good cam kit and make 500+HP or the cheaper route would be to get an iron LQ4/LQ9 and swap in a cam kit and make 480ish.
  But I do agree, a nice SBC will bolt in without the guesswork.  Plus there's tons of proven combos out there already.