Chemical pistols were given a nice new feat and belt because they were much weaker than laser/plasma pistols - crit built plasma pistols could one-shot Tchort, apparently, like sniper rifles. Chemical pistols really needed a boost to be brought up even in line with good conventional pistols. Not saying plasma doesn't deserve some love, just pointing out that chemical pistols *really needed* some love just to be remotely competitive.
Thus, if you want extreme heat output, why not carry an incendiary pistol with you? I have to imagine that would fit the bill.