1W IR suggestions/help

Havn't been around for ages and I just want to make sure I do things right.

for a 808nm 1W diode, is it ok that i use a flexdrive or microboost?

808nm 1000mw 1W burning IR laser diode. USA 3 day ship - eBay (item 270716058328 end time Mar-15-11 23:16:17 PDT)

We are all familiar with this diode, and how it doesnt make a dot. I mainly got this for doing close range burning, and so I have a 808 in my collection. Now, What has been the best current to run these diodes at? I understand such lasers require glasses because what may seem invisible is rather powerful.

This was one of my "it was late at night...i was tired as hell..and thought 'i need a IR laser' *Buys without even considering anything about money* YAAAAY I GOT ONE NOW!!!"

Ever had one of those moments? F the money, lets just get me an IR randomly because i randomly craved it!!!

I'm interested in building a portable IR also. Why can this diode not be focused to a point?

Regarding driver selection, it would seem to me a waste to utilize a microboost or flexdrive for a diode that needs such low voltage to begin with. Why not use a groove?

Its been so long im not fully familiar with what's around. I just want it to run off a 18650 or something similar.

These diodes are multimode. Meaning, you cant get a dot on the wall, it will be like the 445nm and make a line (but possibly a lot worst). you CAN focus them, it just wont do longer range burning.