For 400-450 hp I wouldn't hesitate to do stock rods with ARP hardware. But honestly if your shooting for 500-550+ hp I'd look at the Scat H beams. After you rebuild the stock rods (ARP hardware, size and rebush) your close to the price of new Scats. Cheap insurance. Dave and Tech have covered things really well here. Just to add if you do look at the Edelbrock parts check with Keith Craft also. He can put together a nice combo package on pistons and rods too. I'm late for work but I'll check back later!!