I have a 25mm flare gun that came with the boat. Not as well made as yours appears to be but far nicer than the cheap plastic things. I have a handful of expired 25mm and 12ga. flares as well as a 12ga. insert. I make sure to always have 3 or 4 current 12ga. flares on hand. Never any issues with the CG the couple times we've been boarded. Clean it, keep it oiled and be glad you have something that's going to work if you ever need it.