How do you politely tell others that you'd rather not let them handle your laser?

I used to let others borrow my laser for short periods of time, but I've stopped doing so after a few safety incidents. I'm sure many other forum members don't trust other people with their lasers, either.

That having been said, what do you think is the most polite way of telling other people that you'd rather not let them handle your lasers?

I usually let them know that my laser is a very powerful (and hence dangerous) one, and that I could get in trouble in the event that someone gets hurt (it's probably true). So far, it's worked very well for me. Does anyone else have any similar responses?

I've answered this question 'hey man, awesome laser - can I check it out?' with the same answer everytime.

I'm sorry, nobody handles my lasers but me.

After briefly explaining how dangerous they are and/or demo'ing the laser by burning my wallet a little, everyone has understood afterwards. It's not that difficult to make that point and don't let anyone ever talk you out it. It's those type of people who wouldn't understand that you dont want playing with a high powered laser in the first place

Most of the people I hang around with know I don't beat around the bush so I just say, "I don't trust you."

But I generally don't use high power lasers around people very often. I don't think it's a good idea to give people the impression that they are "toys." <100mW or so is enough to show off.

I just say stand back when someone ask. Then I start telling them how much they really cost. That usually does the trick.

It's like handing someone a loaded gun. If I do let someone handle one of my high power lasers, I always remove the batteries and show them that it is "unloaded".

I completely agree with the above post. Even with my first Ebay lasers, I wouldn't hand anyone a laser until after I gave my very serious, very detailed speech about safety and handling. With my more powerful lasers, I never hand someone my laser with it ready to go. Batteries are taken out. As far as letting someone use one of my burning lasers, it's only people in a small circle of friends that are mature enough, and completely understand the dangers of their actions....and a lot of boring instruction from yours truely.

I go a step further when asked where to buy one. I never answer that with a site. Instead, I answer with something along the lines of, "It took me 3 solid months of research before I decided to make the potentially life changing decision to own a high powered laser." Then usually point them to this forum. I've gotten the "ya ya ya, but seriously" to which I refer the 1W laser to the eye thread. That usually shuts them up

This is why i don't sell lasers, parts on the other hand never hurt anyone

"Dude can you let me try?"

"Nope."

That usually does it. If they continue to persist, I kindly explain that it takes about less than one milisecond to completely and irreversebly destroy theirs'/others' eye sight.

Nobody persisted after that.

Worst kind of people are ones who don't say "Let me try it", but "Dude shine it in that bicyclist's eyes so he trips and falls."

That is a good time to have very sharp and pointy tactical crowns on your lasers. Or at least, a lot of machined ribs on the host. Apply liberally.

I have used the same rule that serves me well...

No-one touches my Girlfriend, Harley or Lasers...
You want one.... get or buy one..:eg:


Jerry

You can contact us at any time on our Website: J.BAUER Electronics

Hovermn said:

I go a step further when asked where to buy one. I never answer that with a site. Instead, I answer with something along the lines of, "It took me 3 solid months of research before I decided to make the potentially life changing decision to own a high powered laser." Then usually point them to this forum. I've gotten the "ya ya ya, but seriously" to which I refer the 1W laser to the eye thread. That usually shuts them up

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Haha, I take a very similar approach. I let them know that lasers are very complicated devices, but also that LPF is a good place to start learning about them.

No need to be polite to refuse someone handle/touch what is yours. Say firmly, "No" and don't bother explaining why. Also don't show off you lasers at dances... you are begging for trouble doing this...

Not to mention very dangerous and irresponsible.

gillza said:

Also don't show off you lasers at dances... you are begging for trouble doing this...

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I just say no, or explain the dangers.

Or go away from the person that wants your laser.

Eudaimonium said:

"Dude shine it in that bicyclist's eyes so he trips and falls."

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Man I hate THAT guy...