the beam is much easier to see with green lasers
50mW of 532 has same preceived 'brightness' as 1W of blue-
from the side beams are less visible that from behind or when facing the laser ---all visible wavelengths look much brighter--
You should have eyeware BEFOR buying and be sure it covers the color you are buying.
IF you cant afford ANY then you also cant afford to buy the laser-IF you can ATM only afford cheap eyeware- do that - then save up for better and retire your cheapies as 'guest glasses' but make sure the still stay well away from the 'danger zones'
Once they are iin a 'safe zone' they can safely view your lasers- BUT need to know if they move about they need to have them on. This is all true when using a laser projector- which IMO is safer than a handheld used without taking care.
". I am located in San Carlos, CA 94070." well if that was to be a secret its out there now- SO-- WHY not just place that into your profile so we will know every time we read your posts or threads--
you have been her a month longer than me-- its time--
If you are up to building I can send you a 445 diode, an AixiZ blank 12X30 module and a nice host with huge heat sink for your price point... the building and other parts is all on you--
hak