Hi Matthew - no, there isn’t quite as much control as a bag, but in some situations it really works for me.  I have also started using parchment bags quite a bit - I’m really starting to like them.  As for the decorator “gun"pictured above, I’ve seen them for sale at Target, Michaels, and JoAnns.  Check the prices, they vary from place to place.

Hi Julie - practicing on a flat surface is great for some things.  I also like to simulate practicing piped borders and side designs on an upside-down cake pan.