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

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.

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