SF-BW512L 12x Build

I really like the one on the right (with the extruding, finned heatsink). How much are you planning to sell something like that for?

I haven't really decided yet. The finned ones are fairly labor intensive. Probably around 4 hours machine time start to finish on one. I have another 5 of the hosts coming in and I was going to do a batch and see how much I could get that time down to before deciding.. since how long it takes really sets the price.

As it stands, it'd probably be right around $100 for host+finned aluminum heatsink + knurled aluminum focus ring for it to be worth my time. For copper heatsink, add $25, for brass focus ring instead of AL, +$5... But.. like I said. If I can start doing them quicker, the price will drop some.

Put me down for one of them! ^^

I'm interested as well

I am very interested in one of these host with the extended heat-sink...


(even though i voted for another host 2010)

Still think this is a nice build.

Looks really nice, I also love hosts that don't look obviously like flashlights. I would buy one if I had the funds (maybe in the near future).

Any way to hack the button into a momentary-on push button?

I must have missed this, these are beautiful builds. Very nice and clean looking!

Thanks, though after the 2nd 12x diode LEDing i've come to the conclusion that 750mA drive is just too close to the edge for these. They seem to be EXTREMELY susceptible to back reflections when running at this high power, leading me to believe that around 800mW with a 405-g-1 is about all the facet coatings can take and it takes very little of a back reflection to push the cavity power density over what the coatings can take..

As far as the switch. I doubt the switch could be modified, but replacing it entirely with a different one probably wouldn't be too much of a hassle. After carrying one of these flashlights around on a daily basis.. not a laser build, just a flashlight.. i've come to the conclusion that I don't really like side clicks for daily use. I've discovered the thing turned on in my coat about 4 times now, and once it had been on long enough for the entire flashlight to have gotten too hot to touch... I think i'll stick with end click hosts for personal builds I might carry around. It's just harder for them to get accidentally turned on. Though I still plan on selling kits using these type hosts once other things get settled.

grooves would be perfect for holding some blue glow powder

Edit: don't think I commented on the nice heatsinks. They look very clean! Very nicely done, Q