Hola boa folks,

I know several people have asked, and the questions have been answered with a "personal preference" response.

I have been wanting a boa since we got my son a Royal last May. We did the typical first time snake buyer, glass tank purchase, which I then ended up modifying by insulating it, getting a Herpstat II, fun paper back drop, heat lights, furnishings and so on.

So the story goes,,, I have been moping and pouting and asking to get a boa. "NO" is the usual response. My B-day is quickly approaching and I was sent a "How much do one of those cages cost?" text. After almost crapping myself with surprise I have had to re-evaluate and restart my caging quest.

Keep in mind "Yes" was not the answer, just "How much do those cages cost?". To me, that means there is a slight chance.

Out of these 3: Animal Plastics, Proline and Boaphile, I have leaned toward AP or Proline but not ruled out Boaphile.

The snake I would like to have would "ideally" would be a larger male Colombian BCI. When I say larger, I mean 6'-8' adult size, but I'd probably search for a snake that is 1 year old or under.

Having that in mind, I'd like to hear what the experienced boa keepers here think.

The Boaphile cage, 421D to me, seems a little short at 11.5 inches high. I think getting my shoulder in there for cleaning would be a pain, and I like the fact that boas will climb a bit if given the option. I'm not sure I like the type of PVC the cage is made of either. But I do like the fact Jeff will build and place everything you need in the cage.

I like the AP T-8 even at just 1/2 in taller than the Boaphile, or the T-10. Both reasonably are priced after shipping. I'd put a perch in if I could.

I like the Proline because of the plastic used, and the simplicity of putting it together. I would probably opt for the 14" high model because the 18" starts to price out higher than I want and the AP 15" high model seems a better value if I go for more ceiling.

So who uses what, and why do you like it?

Also, is there an advantage to acrylic doors VS glass? Sliding doors VS 1 single front, drop door? What should the height be to keep heat and humidity but have a bit of space for the snake?

I have read reviews on customer service and and elsewhere. I have spoken to Jeff (Boaphile) by phone he was very nice. I spoke to Ed (Proline) by phone and he was very nice too.

I e-mailed AP and they were very nice and quick to respond. Lead time is not a huge deal for any of them as I have no date to get a snake.

I've looked at the previous posts on this subject, but just wanted to get some boa owner opinions and customize things for me and go from there.

PS. I am not a handyman, but would be OK with self assembly if it's not overly involved. The Proline looks like a breeze, AP I'm not sure, and Boaphile is all set.