I appreciate the input!
Over the next few days, I'll be doing the work. Already have a Choate flash hider drilled, ready to install. That was a bit of a chore trying to square up on the drill press as it is a cast part and the 'flat' sides were not truly flat. Consequently, the holes for the roll pins are slightly askew, but not noticeably so. I think I could have done just as well if not better using a cordless drill with a built in level. Won't matter when installed.
While I'm at it, I'll be installing a new SS gas plug as the one that came with the rifle was corroded. That puzzled me as the rest of the rifle was pristine. After that, it will be the SOCOM Accu-Strut and I'll have a true Mini-14.