my machine shop put the bottom end together, how would i know if he used a late model timing chain?
Ask him? Unless there were specific instructions AND he read them, he probably used a standard timing set.
if he did couldint i advance the distributor to compensate for this?
Cam timing and spark timing are two different things. Cam timing affects the opening and closing of valves with respect to TDC. Spark timing affects the firing of the spark plug with respect to TDC.

First, you need to find true TDC to make sure that you don't have the wrong timing pointer or a slipped harmonic damper. A $10 piston stop, a piece of masking tape and a pencil are all you need for that.

Then, you need to look at the dist. I had a Unilite, and I could turn it 360 degrees. I don't understand what's keeping yours from turning.

Do you have it wired correctly? (1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 clockwise)