Trying to degree my camshaft

when you're measuring the cam lobes, whether it be by dial calipers, or dial indicator, you should be aware that the cam lobes have a taper to them. In other words, the nose of the cam is not flat, but a very slight angle. That way the lifter rides near the edge of the lobe near the edge of the (convex)bottom of the lifter, and it will impart a spin to the lifter and thus the pushrod. This helps the cam lobe and lifter "live".