Does anyone recall, maybe from ten-to-a-dozen years ago (says my hazy recollection), mechanical flares coming out that had springy things on weapons? The name of the merchant, what they were effective against, how long they went before needing repair, et cetera?

Only things on the Wiki look like they're for wand-loading Bazzelwyn runestaves, and this is a flail.

Here's what it looks like:
"Two thin metal spikes are attached to the handle of the flail. They are angled so that they lie parallel to one another, against the length of the weapon. Tightly coiled steel springs are clearly visible beneath the spikes. >>-->The springs appear to be in absolutely perfect condition.<--<< You also notice a small enchanter's mark."
(Emphasis mine.)

.

Any de-mystification would be helpful! Thanks in advance.

"the "absolutely perfect condition" line is for the permanent versions." -- Nuadjha

This matches well with my buying habits.

If I read the 'Flares' page of the wiki correctly: these are considered a 'rare' type; and being 'spikes' on top of the springs, they will always do Puncture crits, does that sound accurate?