Topic: Anyone into lasers?

[Wraith-1]

I wouldn't call my self a laser hobbyist, but I intend to become one. I bought a 5mw 532nm pointer laser from ebay a couple days ago, just to play around with.

I also bought some plans for various Class IV lasers from Information Unlimited, but I still can't decide whether I want to spend money building a laser or a coilgun  .

Anyone else played/worked with lasers more powerful than a class IIIa?

[Foil]

Only in the Physics lab during my undergraduate years.  Fun stuff. 

[Kaiaatzl]

I'm not but it would be very interesting.

[Scyphi]

The only lasers I know of coming into contact with is your standard laser pointers (like the ones teachers use) and any lasers used in standard equipment these days in the world. Like checkout stands in stores.