Check this out. You can get a real life handheld laser now that can burn objects, and a Star Wars type lightsaber, for $299. See the links below to the manufacturer's website, which contain video demonstrations. I've always wanted a laser weapon.
http://www.wickedlasers.com/arctic
http://www.wickedlasers.com/lasersaber
Here are some burning test demonstrations of these lasers:
NBC warns parents not to buy this laser for their kids: