If I were you I'd be looking for quarter mile times on different mild setups so that yeah, you only cut once and get it the right length so to speak. I've not paid much attention to HP mod threads as I don't plan any myself. But with the level of desire and capability your post suggests... I think I'd set my sights on a 3.4 and concentrate on fully tweaking the support mods so its safe to drive like you want. And drive the thumpy Buford often!