What kind of laser pointer to buy? (wavelength, wattage)

[Couchman]

Hi, I recently bought a few prisms, and wanted to have some fun experimenting with the way lasers would refract through them. However, when I went to go get a laser to shoot through the prisms, I realized that they were all non-visible!

So, my question is, what wavelength and power should I buy in order to be able to see the laser in the air and shining inside the prism? I'm don't know too much about laser pointers, so I figure here is a good place to ask.

 

[Zeebit]

Your laser is either dead or its an infrared.

Get a 532nm (green) laser for best visibility. 50mW should produce a decent bright beam. Just be careful around mirrors and prisms.

For safety when adjusting the prisms get a pair of safety goggles to protect your eyes. Here is a very cheap pair:

Uvex S1933X Skyper Safety Eyewear, Black Frame, SCT-Orange UV Extreme Anti-Fog Lens - Amazon.com

 

[Moistenator]

As stated above, 50mW green laser with the suggested goggles should be more then enough.

 

[Couchman]

I'll pick up the pointer and goggles soon. Thanks!

 

[RedDart]

Don't make the mistake of getting the pointer's reflection onto itself, it broke my red 200mW!

 

[Kartracer00]

And buy the safety goggles FIRST.
That step is very, very, very, very, very damn important damn it!

With that said, Welcome to the Forum of a lifetime.
Be safe and have fun. Read the Stickies.
Add your approximate location to your profile and stick around for a while.