Safety? As long as the fuel tanks aren't hit by incendiary ammo, you're probably okay. Depreciation is zero for vintage 1942 units, which have stabilized in price around $30,000. Its biggest weakness is its Burning Man rating it's far too dangerous to show off for fun anywhere near flammable objects (like tents) and you can forget about closed spaces. The M2 is moderately effective against smaller, more agile targets like alien facehuggers. Fast zombies? At 15 mph, they'll cover 120 feet in five seconds. Light them up and you or your sidekicks can pick them off with bullets, arrows, or bolts. At 2 mph, slow zombies will need 41 seconds to reach you from the edge of your max range. Fear factor is enormous, which is critical for long-term survival. Also, most of the weight is on your back, which means the attached projector section sucks for use as a club.
Alas, that 70 pounds means you better be strong like bull. Tough to carry at 70 pounds, but with almost five gallons of flammable gel on your back and 120 feet of effective range, this is the best of the best until you get to vehicle or crew-served alternatives.