All T's are indeed venomous, however to say that it's nothing worse than a bee sting is an understatement. First off there are New World T's which are found in the Americas and have milder venom but posses urticating hairs. Old world T's from Asia and Africa have more potent venom and from the stories I've heard, some species can be extremely painful with effects lasting months. The P. Metallica is an old world and nothing to take lightly. Old world are also more aggressive and fast. I currently keep three different species of Tarantulas (all New world) and my advice would be to start with a New World T. Do your research before buying. Beware that males are short lived once they reach maturity.