No, the laser was in a sense pot modded, (one of my earliest things in the hobby I did). The reason for this is, the diodes used in this laser are rated for an output between 5-20mw, and at 20mw, the driver will not allow for the laser to be turned up any higher. I have had this laser for over two years with no negative side effects, as for IR leak, I don't really ever have need to test for it as I rarely use my lasers indoors anymore, most of the time I use them at night star pointing. If it really worries you, I would be happy to do an IR leak test. :yh: