This high-power CO₂ cutting head provides a versatile solution to laser cutting of a variety of materials including metals, wood, plastics, or fabric. The cartridge style optics holders allow for an in-the-field service or replacement with standard off-the-shelf optics. Due to a modular design, this processing head is customizable to many cutting applications. A mechanical fuse device prevents damage in the event of a crash. An adjustable vernier gas manifold with a precision scale provides repeatable focus settings and immediate focal changes. Requiring minimal maintenance, this reliable cutting head offers precision, consistency, high repeatability and productivity at a low price.