I agree with your comments. And indeed if a fish takes the head you are going to get bitten off. But, the fish that this rig is designed to prevent bite offs from Mackerel. From my experience, Mackerel tend to slash at a bait right through the middle section (right where the second hook would be positioned) negating the need for wire off the front hook. Sure, you will get the occasional bite off. I have used this rig more for live baiting bottom fish such as Fingermark where presentation if too important to have the wire off the front. But, mackerel are prevalent in our waters and its nice to be able to prevent the majority of bite off when they take the bait.
Thanks for your comment 🙂