Quick question about IR Filters for a Green Laser.

Hi, I'm considering purchasing my first green laser, and my current options are these.

Option 1: www.rayfoss.com

Option 2: www.rayfoss.com

Option 3: 200mW transformable green laser [OLV6200] - $165.00 : O-Like, Quality Products, Great Prices


One of my first question is the difference between Option 1 and Option 2.
I know that Option 1 is 200mw and comes with a case, while option 2 has 250mw but no case, but is there any other difference?

My Next question is whether an IR Filter is necessary. I want to be sure I am safe to my eyes with this laser, so I want to know whether the IR Filter will prevent eye damage from looking at the dot, and will prevent my pet from getting eye damage (of course, never shine it near the pet). If you believe an IR Filter is not neccessary,will looking at the dot or beam not hurt my eyes? Or, are there glasses that protect your eyes from all possible laser problems (such as IR). But I wonder what is the best for my pet. As option 3 has no IR Filter.

ALSO DO, if you have an IR FILTER do you not need goggles?
My third question is whether there are any other cheap, green lasers that you might reccommend.

Overall, I want to pick one of these lasers that is powerful, yet is safe for my eyes, and if the IR Filter is safer, then I will buy that one.

Any previous experience with the lasers listed will be helpful too.

Thanks and God Bless!

okay, first off, keep all 5mW+ lasers AWAY from animals, they dont know the risks of stareing at the dot, and their eyes(specially cats) are more sensitive to light.
second, IR, try doing some research here on IR filters and that sort. 532nm green lasers are DPSS lasers, meaning they contain an IR diode pumped through a seris of special crystals to convert the near invisible light(808nm) to green(532nm). without an IR filter some IR is not converted to 532nm and comes out the aperature with the green light, usually in a cone shape 'surrounding' the beam, IR causes problems because the light can reflect back into your eyes and you wouldnt notice it because you cant see it(no blink reflex) so you wouldnt know untill its too late.
third, IR filters just keep the laser from emitting IR with the green, you still need saftey glasses for 532nm light, you can look at the dot from a distance without glasses but you shouldnt stare or shine it on somethin closer than 10', and keep it AWAY from animals.

EDIT: In conclusion, you would be better of to get a laser that is IR filtered, especially for your first, and buy a pair of saftey glasses