The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word REVOLVER
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
R
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "This exponent of spin/may get fired" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case this exponent of spin/may get fired = revolver.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does REVOLVER mean?
REVOLVER noun- A handgun with a revolving chamber enabling several shots to be fired without reloading.
- (by extension) Any (personal) firearm with such a mechanism.
- Synonym of revolving line of credit
- Agent noun of revolve; something that revolves.