Tracer:
I used to run the Fel-Pro blue series 1000's, long before the wire-locs came out. The 1000's used to be the "upgrade" choice for the TR's. However, I popped many of them too, with far less than 25psi. Nowadays, things have changed and new technologies and practices are in effect, allowing us to compensate in other ways. By what I've seen in the modern TR era, is that many folks are running the stock GM gaskets that originally came on the cars, and with little to no problems. The whole key is in the word "detonation". If you don't detonate it, you should not break it! With the onslaught of high pressure/volume injectors and pumps readily available, and chip technology to control boost and timing however you wish,,, you would be fine running the old stockers or steel shim styles. And, yes, you can get away with 25psi boost by taking out a little timing and adding in more fuel. The combos today are running much faster, easier, by running less timing and more boost. (which is in conflict to what we were doing 10+ years ago.)
Per your concerns, in your particular case, I would avoid grooving the heads, and just make the investment in your fuel system and chips. Jay Carter is on this forum alot, and he will custom burn anything you need. So will Joe Lubrant, and others. Call any of the main vendors such as Cotton's, PTE, RamChargers, etc, and they can set you up with a chip that allows the boost you want, in a controlled environment. By the way, you'll love the Champion irons! Mine were beautiful when I got em'!
