Hastings Ring Gap?

Pretty much. Only if you build a 9.5 comp or sub 170lb dynamic/cranking motor can you run .028 or .029 and survive.
I'll be running .034 or .035 on my next stroker incarnation.
I remember talking to Marco YEARS ago when I was wanting some ring gap advice. He said "don't be afraid to give enough gap to drive a bus through it". LOL