A flash lamp pumped CTH:YAG resonating laser and method for operating the laser whereby the laser is capable of lasing at the 2097 nm wavelength. The method for operating at the 2097 nm wavelength include utilizing an output coupler with a lower reflectivity and minimizing the passive losses in the laser. The resulting laser is capable of operating with a lower intra-cavity energy density and increased output energy, decreasing the probability of optical breakdown of the laser components when operated.