how good/bad are standard iron headers?

tubes

Tube headers are generally "tuned" for performance...the diameter and length are optimized for the application and intended use. To get the best perfomance you need the rest of the exhaust matched to them.

The downside of tube headers is often the bolts and fasteners will back off and gaskets can blow out, plus more heat under the hood. Good quality coated headers shouldn't give that problem, but some might argue with that.

Cast iron will wear much longer but generally won't provide the level of performance tube headers will.

Like anything else, headers are part of a complete package or system to obtain a certain performance level.    Decide what performance you want, how you intend to use the car and plan out a comprehensive plan to achieve it.    Simply mixing parts in without an overall plan will often disappoint and not make the power you might think, or even hurt performance.

i understand that,gunslinger.

Get a good set of coated headers...ceramic coated or something like Jet Hot. It will help with any rust or heat issues. More money but worth it.

Others may disgree, but I think the best headers are Sanderson...extremely well made and they have the thickest flanges of any brand I know of. That should go a long way toward keeping fasteners from backing off. Check their website about their products.

ok will do. thank you

emailed sanersons, they dont show a 350 header. but you never know.

They definitely make several sets for small block Chevies. I have a car with a new 350 crate engine that got a set of Sandersons.

They should have what you want.

 Before you spend big bucks on the DART heads you should check out the GM Fast Burn heads for the 350. They give you the same 64cc chamber and cost about half. I have them and a little port and polish and they work very well. Just a cost thought.

tell me more about them gm fast burn heads????????