What will upgrading the Camshaft do to my BBC 454?

Question

I have been told that upgrading the Camshaft in my GM 454 will increase performance. What will this do exactly and what will the engine actually gain?

10069286 block casting
454cu
'90-'91 MY, Mark IV
4-bolt
short deck
stock rectangular port heads

The engine has been rebuilt and bored .020" over. Otherwise stock. 
Hedman headers, 3" exhaust, stock intake manifold and 4 barrel Rochester carburetor.

Stock hydraulic camshaft.

Cam Style: Hydraulic roller tappet
Intake Duration at 050 inch Lift: 204
Exhaust Duration at 050 inch Lift: 209
Duration at 050 inch Lift: 204 int./209 exh.
Advertised Intake Duration: 273
Advertised Exhaust Duration: 298
Advertised Duration: 273 int./298 exh.
Intake Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio: 0.479 in.
Exhaust Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio: 0.483 in.

Con FUse · Answer

Essentially a camshaft alters how much air can enter the engine at a given rpm (thus moving your power curve around).  Some aftermarket companies can sell you a more agressive lobe shape that will get more power at higher rpms with limited losses at the lower rpm - sorta a win-win.
With a hydraulic roller, you make power over about 4000rpm.  If you want to make lots of horsepower, shoot for a cam that  makes power to 6000rpm, knowing that below 2000rpm you might loose from what you have now.  Do you tow?
I would start my talking to Comp Cams.  Tell them what you want, and they will guide you.
Cam is the heart of the engine.
Go too wild, and you will hate your truck.  Conservative is the rule.

What will upgrading the Camshaft do to my BBC 454?

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