Laser recommendation for newb

[movinswiftly]

Hello folks!
Been sniffing around the web for sometime in search of laser pointers. By the looks of it I came to a right place at last. This seems like a fairly big, reputable laser community. I understand there are power differences, but most of these companies don't look too reliable to me. One thing I learned quickly, If i purchase a laser, I purchase it from somebody here .

In any case, my budget is < 200$. I like green. Correct me if I'm wrong, it looks like thats the best color to chose? I want it to burn stuff, and also burn stuff at distance if possible. No, I don't only need it for burning. I plan to use it with caution and simply have some fun. It should obviously be a handheld laser, any sizes between one that fits in my pocket and one that would be the length of my palm. Basically, something portable to carry with me if I'd like. Something that looks good and fits nice in my hand. Preferably a rechargeable battery (assuming that option is essential?)

This is my first laser purchase.
What are some recommendations on your list?
Thanks :drool:

 

[Tech_Junkie]

Optotronics sells quality lasers at decent prices. Most Chinese lasers are cheaper, but they dont guarantee output. They advertise 200mW that are often under 50mWs. Opto backs up what it sell, and ships from the US so you dont wait for a month for your laser from China arrives. You also run the risk of it getting confiscated ordering outside the US.

 

[Migz Zubiri]

Optotronics sells quality lasers at decent prices. Most Chinese lasers are cheaper, but they dont guarantee output. They advertise 200mW that are often under 50mWs. Opto backs up what it sell, and ships from the US so you dont wait for a month for your laser from China arrives. You also run the risk of it getting confiscated ordering outside the US.

thank u 4 ursuggestions!!!

 

[daguin]

thank u 4 ursuggestions!!!

:thinking:

Peace,
dave

 

[chipdouglas]

haha, it looks like they logged in with their second account lol


michael.

 

[movinswiftly]

Any other recommendations?

 

[Fenzir]

ebay cheapie 5mw green for a starter.
definitely.

 

[anselm]

ebay cheapie 5mw green for a starter.
definitely.

^^^^ this.
And a 5mW (40~60mW in reality) 405nm to go along with it.
These are 6-7$ each and good for lots of fun if you never had a laser before.

 

[matticusnicholas]

I agree with those talking about a 5mw cheapo on eBay.

I just bought one for $5.90. I haven't gotten it yet but I hear you usually get a lot more than the advertised 5mW. They are just labeled that so they can sell them to the US.

No IR filter though with those cheapos so be careful with it.

And a 5mW (40~60mW in reality) 405nm to go along with it.

If I find I am enjoying playing around with the green laser I will probably expand my inventory to include other colors of the spectrum.