For non-gnomes it is likely better just to pick up Rapid Reload and use a light crossbow since EWP would be necessary and you wouldn't have to bother with drums or clips...
So I guess my question is, is this weapon a flavor thing for your tinkering gnomes? If so, yeah... very cool. Power wise, it gives the advantage to your Gnome NPCs. Specially if these things are modified to Heavy Gnomish Repeaters, require a stand (much like a 60 cal), and voila! You've got defenses for your gnomish villages and cave complexes.
So I guess my question is, is this weapon a flavor thing for your tinkering gnomes? If so, yeah... very cool. Power wise, it gives the advantage to your Gnome NPCs. Specially if these things are modified to Heavy Gnomish Repeaters, require a stand (much like a 60 cal), and voila! You've got defenses for your gnomish villages and cave complexes.