i only have one point in it and i agree that it's a great novelty but not that great in battle. perhaps maxed out i might see better results.
one question though...if it drains your health points when using it does it also drain helth points of pirates the immediate area as well?
i don't use it enough to remember if it does. If it did however...boy talk about a fun way to get rid of low level rep stealers, stowaways, etc etc