Handheld lasers

[Taz]

Do you own a handheld laser?

Came to know of various online retailers that sell very powerful (battery-operated) handheld lasers. You don't just see the dot, but the beam itself, even in clear air. They're supposed to be able to shine real far, and come in cherry, lime and blueberry flavor. Would really love to own a couple of these once I'm more loaded. Here's one site selling such lasers. And here are a couple screenshots.

[Hellscrag]

Don't like them... they can easily blind people / animals.

[Taz]

Provided one is careful with them, I believe that should not be an issue.

[ividyon]

So.. what's the use of it?

[UB_]

God, I really want the green one.

[Taz]

I thought you might! They're not cheap, though...

So.. what's the use of it?

1. Instructional. Astronomers can actually use these to point out various constellations in the night sky for students.

2. Signalling. Adventure or exploration teams that got into trouble could use these to indicate their location.

I'm sure there are yet other possible uses...

[Frieza]

Playing Jedi!

[Jethro]

Fighting malaria!

+ it looks cool (but as Scrag said it hurts eyes badly. There's even a joke among laser scientists: "- How many times can a man see a good laser beam?" "- Two - one time with each eye").

[Taz]

Some have actually tried using these to make convincing-looking lightsabers.

[-Visc-]

Other than using it as aiming device on a small long gun I wouldnt have any real use for lasers.

But I really like those lasers with hell of a lot power cutting wood! Thats really awesome!

[Taz]

You're talking about industrial-type lasers. They can't be handheld anymore, I think, but mounted on heavy machinery.