Are low powered lasers a good alternative to a tactical flashlight for self defense?

[iluvmycam]

While traveling overseas I have been using a small Surefire tactical light in the left hand and pepper spray in the right hand. Would a low powered laser be a better alternative to the 500 Lumen Surefire Backup?

I understand there is a warm up time for high powered lasers. Do low powered lasers work instantly or do they need to warm up as well?

I am not familiar with lasers, so I have no clue as to their self defense use. I had been told you can get a dazzler laser that lightly blinds people from far away. The farther the deterents range, the better I like it.

Thanks for your help.

 

[Norm]

Thread closed a violation of rule 11.

Which in part states.

You agree, through your use of this BB, that you will not post any material which is illegal or which promotes activity that is illegal or could reasonably be foreseen to threaten any person's safety.