Hi flobo2020! Let's see if I can answer your questions.
A hobby box has a variety of inserts, or chase cards, that can include autograph cards, costume cards, props cards, foils (the backs of which form a puzzle), box toppers, and for the HP update, creature cards and filmcards. The retail box has only one of two costume cards (which aren't available in the hobby box) and foils (three of which are not available in the hobby box).
Most people will say that hobby boxes are better, but it depends what the collector wants and how much he/she is willing to pay. Right now on eBay, there are hobby boxes for approximately US $60 and retail boxes for $40. If you're happy with getting a base set and one costume card, then the retail box is the way to go. BUT, if you're like the rest of us loonies here
, you most likely want the chance at the great inserts in the hobby boxes.
Just a note here -- some hobby boxes have up to three inserts, many have only one, and some have no inserts at all. Artbox has odds for pulling the different kinds of cards, but will not guarantee the contents of any box.
I think most people store their cards either in albums with archival quality 9-pocket pages or in individual plastic boxes made specifically for trading cards. Most of my inserts are in an album, but I put my grim card (which is quite thick) in a plastic case designed for thicker cards.
Many of us here bought boxes and cases from MPC and Cards2Collectables (in the UK), and Potomac Distribution and Georgetown Card Exchange (in the US). There were many other dealers selling boxes as well, but I can't remember the names at the moment. You can check on Artbox's website under "distribution" and you might be able to find the names of Canadian dealers. You could also send them an email. I'm not sure how many of the big dealers still have boxes available -- Potomac is sold out except for a damaged box, for instance.
Welcome to the forum!
