Projecting Burns on 3d Models

I’d like to do some burns projected onto a 3D model. I believe this is doable via the Vcarve laser model. To do this, i would need to remove the laser guard, since it sits only 1/8” above the laser focal point.

Has anyone tried this yet? Other than eye safety (which i don’t mean to dismiss), is there any other purpose for the laser guard, or could i remove it? I would of course just make sure to wear my protective glasses when doing this.

I removed mine to make a spindle-mounted case for it. It is completely self-contained and the cover only protects it and holds the fan.