Ares AST-01 Advice

Hello, I wanted some advice with the AST-01. I have heard mostly negative things about the AS-01, though have decided to get an AST because I want to snipe to have fun, and don't really care if it isn't the best performing rifle on the field. (Though I do want it to be good.) I am aiming for around 460-500 fps, if I can get it there. I plan on getting a new body pin, bucking, barrel, and cylinder to begin with. Ares makes a new "large" cylinder for the AS series ([CPSB-007]Upgraded C.P.S.B. for AS Series - Large) that comes with spring, guide, and piston included, and haven't heard anything about it online. My question was then what are some good bucking's that would work, what barrel's would be good, and if it is realistic to shoot for 500 fps (pun intended). was also wondering if I could get a shorter barrel but keep the long outer barrel or if that would cause problems. Thanks! (P.S., if anyone has a good guide for DIY mods like barrel spacers and where I would need teflon tape that would be appreciated.) Thanks!