Nah, you're not obvious - I've just been working with herps, particularly snakes, for a while :) and I'm always glad to help out when I can - so feel free to ask whatever ;)

Again, yes, average should run around 6 to 6 1/2 (again, there are always odd balls that may run 8 to 10, but not like a red-tail) so that means that the max your snake SHOULD reach would be right around there. Most Dumeril's I've seen have been around that soyou should be good. Remember, though, it is going to get VERY heavy. If you are considering dancing with it, I would think that the weight would definately prove to be a problem down the line. (just something to keep in mind)

Boids are sometimes hard for beginners. Size is a big issue, and of course handling - if you dont work with your snake, often people wind up with huge snakes that cannot be handled and are therefore 'throw aways' that they dump on zoos. Feedings an issue, too - your snake might graduate to eating small rabbits so you have to be prepared for that. Some boids have specific humidity requirements, too. I don't like to discourage anyone from anything ::grin:: and you've obviously done excellent homework. So, I'd think you'd be ok with any snake you choose. I'll have to doublecheck the humidity requirements on Dumerils but I believe its about the same as a red tail - not too difficult to maintain (my BRB doesnt really require too much specialness as far as thats concerned). Id be interested to know why people have discouraged you - most likely size - but a Dumerils would not be my suggestion for a beginner snake, either. Again, I think you'll be ok though. :)