Oh NO!! not another small block build

OP: Use 72-73 cc's as your chamber volume to get started on calculations for piston selection. H116CP will get up in the high 9's for static CR with standard Felpro head gaskets. H405's will put you around 9.

Know that not removing the ridge can be problematic... fresh rings have been known to break on a ridge when the rings move up a few thousandths higher in the new assembly versus in the worn engine, due to new bearings and rings. It may not happen often but it has. And if pistons/rods get swapped around, then that possibility increases due to variations in rod lengths, etc.

I may be in the same boat as you soon on the local machinists. One just retired a few months ago locally.