I went back in the shop and tried on higher level Jackson's in 6D, too wide in heel and too short but ball width was good. Also tried sz 6 reidells in a M, which felt really good except a tad too narrow in the ball. I'm assuming my toe needs to brush the end of the boot without scrunching up.
I think the toes, to a degree, is personal preference. I personally don't like to feel the very front of the boot, but you don't want to err on being too long.
Something to think about- when I bought my last pair of running shoes, the guy told me that feet swell as you run (so they always put you in bigger shoes than you think you need). I'm guessing the same thing happens in skates, because for me boots that feel either OK/ smidge too narrow, turn out to be uncomfortable/painful during skating. Thank heavens for punching out!
Perhaps others can comment, but in light of my experience and what the runner guy told me, I would definitely avoid anything that already feels tight, let alone "a tad" too narrow in the store.