If you stay with the stock column and cut it down using a lower bearing kit you'd save on buying a steering column, floor and dash mounts. (Chassis Chevy Trucks has the conversion bearing).
http://www.classicparts.com/1947-59-.../#.UU-DKr_XdMJ
All you'd have to buy is the floor shifter.
Of course its all personal preference and ergonomics .