Marc Ramsey wrote:

Nothing much wrong with his tactics or
attitude, he just didn't realize that he had hooked the "big one" until
it was too late to escape the lift.

Obviously yes. (Don't get me wrong: I'm not saying that I'm perfect.
Actually, I've made very dumb mistakes.)

How long does it take to spin up a gyro?

30 Seconds is plenty enough for the needle.

Stefan