With Life Support and other perks and the overall reduced burn damage i don't think it's OP. My hunter ran through countless Iron Banners with Thorn (not my main, but sorry all the same) and it was much stronger in year one. If you want to compare it to year two weapons then it is a strong option considering it's unique perk, but it fills a role along with TLW and to a lesser degree Hawkmoon in mid to close distance. It will lose at range to any pulse or scout rifle with a competent user. Ultimately it has already been nerfed down for damage. With the re-adjustment to hand cannon ranges it isn't useless and that's why more people are using it. When you kill someone using it drop a bag if you are so inclined, remind them that no one likes them right now. ;)