Just ordered my first laser

Hey I'm new here, and after some reading I decided to go with the 50mw DX green laser. I just wanted something to mess around with, and this one fit right into my price range with a decent amount of advertised power.

I'm looking for some tips to get the most out of my laser once I get it. I see a lot of threads suggesting E2 batteries. Will this in any way shorten the life of my laser? Also, if there are any maitenence tricks or tips I'd like to hear them.

Lastly, what kind of power can I expect from this laser? From what I've read, it looks like lighting matches is out of the picture, but what about something like a baloon?

Thanks and sorry for the n00b questions. Everyone's got to start somewhere, right?

First off, Welcome ! Secondly, wise choice for a begining laser - LOTS of power, but not so much that you are gonna be cutting trees in half if you let it roll while it's on !

Take care of it - better than you would your cell phone ! Treat it like an expensive camera - respect the optics, ensure you do not ever point it at anything moving - like airplanes, cars, etc...anytime you shine it, expect that you could blind someone - and take precautions not to do that !

Try it out on anything BLACK when you get it - E2 batts will do well in that laser ! It iwll not shorten it. The DX lasers are not really the most durable, but I know someone who keeps it in his pocket all the time, and never has issues - while others say one time in their pants, and it was ruined !

I would definetly give balloons a try. You shouln't have too much trouble popping a balloon with 50mw, also, even though it might be a long shot try a sharpied match you never know
Senkat is 100% correct treat it like it could/would blind someone if it hit near their eyes. Also, be sure not to let anyone "play" with it unless they know the cost and the power behind it.
Last be sure to let us know how it works out for you and maybe a few vids of your new toy would be nice.

Welcome to the forum fddrummer06 and i hope you will find this a good place to hang out

Awesome, thanks for the tips! I'll be sure to post how it works once I get it.

We'll look forward to your findings mate