Thanks for the replies all.
Like I said I talked to the gent who built it.
We came to the conclusion pretty good odds its ring seal.
But he gave me some ideas and things to try ( heavier oil weight , with a zinc additive , change pcv valve etc etc )

I knew going in a piston change was in my future with the car and those plans havent changed in that respect. I just need to rebuild the piggy bank before I can cross that bridge .

Again, many thansk for all the replies.

But yes it has both inner and out springs AND a dampner between said springs .
I dont think my hand held spring compressor will do the springs anyway so cyl head removal would be required either way