best laser 1w or more for 250USD?

[Paddy]

I'm assuming hardly any of the lasers that aren't $600+/a wicked laser have a infinate/long duty cycle then?

 

[Tech_Junkie]

The general rule is the more power, the shorter the cycle. Obviously the host, heat sink combination play into how long the cycles are at any given power. Its not a money factor, its a science factor. There are not that many high power 100% duty cycle lasers out there at any price.

 

[Bionic-Badger]

I'm assuming hardly any of the lasers that aren't $600+/a wicked laser have a infinate/long duty cycle then?

Excuse me, why would you put a Wicked Laser in the same category--or sentence--as a $600+ quality laser? The only thing that makes a WL 445nm laser possibly even worth buying over some other is the cool looking case, and that's it. Otherwise it's just an overpriced 445nm laser.

306man:

A custom 445nm laser build will be the best choice. Maybe PM Yobreal, or just wait until he has a sale. However, if you want a manufactured laser, see if you can get a 445nm laser via Scopeguy's Group Buy.

 

[DrSid]

Infinite duty cycle is more problem of portability .. it's no problem to make lab build with infinite cycle, and it can be even cheaper then portable build.