Danny Debris here, of the Debris Drifter. Well, a Recyclers hold is none to shaby, true. But for explorations and limited trade and mining you may want to look into a CSF. It's a larger vessel, 500 in the hold, with slightly lesser firepower. However, as a recompense, it can mount far heavier armor, the same shields, and handles about the same. I wouldn't want to take it alone against a gunboat, but it will see off anything smaller well enough if properly kitted. It's also a bit more comfortable than the tiny cockpit of the Recycler. I have mine outfitted with a wetbar, even.
If you change your mind about heading out to the deepdark, swing around our way. We'll be glad to share a mug of Rochester's finest and swap tales and routes.