Crossword Genius

Cooler asset outlined by firm sort, essentially a cold-blooded killer? (3,11)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

boa constrictor

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'killer?' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both animals as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'cooler asset outlined by firm sort essentially a cold-blooded' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'firm' could be 'strict' (firm can mean strict or severe) and 'strict' is present in the answer.
'a' is within the answer.
'cold' could be 'c' (eg on taps) and 'c' is found within the answer.
'asset' could be 'boon' (I've seen this in another clue) and 'boon' is found within the leftover letters.
The remaining letters 'or' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for boa constrictor that I've seen before include "Large snake" , "Medium-sweet sherry" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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