Is an anti-static gun necessary?

Mine works, and better than the Mapleshade Ionoclast IME.

Is it necessary? No one can answer that but you. Only you know to what extent static causes problems in your setup. I'm in New England, where static's often a problem, so for me it's useful.

I've got a zero-stat gun. It works well. Can't say that I'd die without it, but it is handy.

If you live in the north with the heat is drying out your air,it seems to be worth the little extra time.In the south close to the ocean,it may not be so useful.If it does what it is supposed to,besides the little static sparks making noise,it should help the LP from attracting dust,etc.Anti-static mats if they get along with your table?

Never hurts. Also think about getting a ion hair dryer, for less then $30 it will prove helpful. Lastly, keep the air moist, which means a top rated humidifier in areas with cold winters. The latter also saves tons of money on your heating bill.