This whole topic might be moot as a CO2 type device is probably Off topic . That said I would take a Silca in working condition every time. You ''Buddies'' will be SOL after 1 or 2 flats while I with my spare tube and patch kit can keep going for ever.And thats from years of experience with the low point being 4 flats on a 50mile ride. Someone mentioned Silca maintenence and I will concur a little grease on the plunger will keep it at 100%. Silcas do become brittle and break though some of mine I have owned since the 1960s so your experience may vary.
BOB FREITAS
in steamy Petaluma CA USA
former home of the US Wrist wrestling Championship but still home to
the ''FrameMeister'' Bruce Gordon