ring_zer0 said:
I ain't running from anything, the truth far less.... I just want a good laser!
Hello ring_zer0, and I too would like to welcome you to the forum.
I became interested in lasers a few months ago through another forum, and have been a lurker of LC forum. I am very fortunate to have found this forum and learn the truth about WL as well as other companies...good and bad.
To make a long story short, I almost got suckered into buying a WL from all the marketing hype on their website as well as all the deception within their forum. I am now glad I did not buy a laser from them, although I have bought lasershades from them because that is at least one good item they offer.
A few days ago I purchased a Nova X105. The total cost including TNT express shipping came to appx. $250.00. This included an aluminum case, a free diffraction grating, a membership to their website and about $10.00 worth of light years. The laser is rated at 105mw's, but mine peaks at 122 and averages 117mw's. In addition Nova's customer support is outstanding...there is no BS.
I bought from Nova because I had read reviews of this laser from another member of this forum I trust, although the laser reviewed was an X85. And because so many forum members reported how happy they were with their purchase from Nova. The only reason it took me so long to get a greenie is because I have been experimenting with red laser diodes, but finally decided to take the plunge and get a greenie.
The only other two companies I can recommend is LaserGlow and Optotronics. This recommendation also based on independent reviews and praises from the members. I would have bought from either of them, but they both deal in higher powered greenies and I can't yet afford it.
As far as WL and their forum, nothing disappoints me more than outright lies and deception. I have not personally engaged in the rampage on their forum, but I can't fault anyone for doing so. Many members of their forum have been banned with no good reason. And the lies and deceit still continue there, as well as on their website.
I am glad you found your way here, but it is too bad you did not get here before making the decision to purchase form WL's.