Excellent idea to make this is sticky.
This is the information that most people seeking help tend to need. I have typed and retyped this information so many times, that I finally put it into a word document that I can cut and paste from. LOL It's nice to have a thread to direct people to.
I would definitely add links to the best places to find bulbs (ideally, next to where the bulb is mentioned in the post, or perhaps in a list at the bottom of the sticky with the name of the bulb and then a link right next to it). As others have mentioned, the
MegaRay can [generally] only be found at
http://www.reptileuv.com. Also, I would add the
Exo Terra Solar Glo to your list of decent MVBs. Although it's not as strong in terms of UVB as either the MegaRay or T-Rex, it is a good and known safe bulb, and is also (online) a bit less expensive which is often an issue when money is tight.
As to the basking light, I would edit it to include
any type household incandescent so long as it offers BRIGHT WHITE LIGHT and proper temps. Some people have better luck with spots, or small household floods or regular bulbs, rather than halogens. Just depends on the viv/personal preference.
Oh, Incidentally,
Lowe's also carries the
Acu-Rite, and most recently for a dollar less than WalMart.
I sent you a PM as well.
The best, and great work!
Em