Bottom End

My KDX is making a noise that directly correlated with rpm and it sounds like a knocking noise. I think the piston is hitting the head and I am pretty sure it is time for a bottom end. My question is where can I get everything I need to redo my bottom end and will I really need a case splitter or can I just use something like a putty knife to split the cases? Or would it just be cheaper to send it to my local shop surfandturf racing and get the bottom end done for $425?

Thanks guys,
Christian :ride: