A laser using a laser diode and a narrow wavelength from a resonant atomic transition of a predetermined material. The gain range of the laser diode encompasses the wavelength of the resonant atomic transition. A vapor cell containing a material, such as a metal vapor, providing the resonant atomic transition forming the predetermined wavelength is placed between permanent magnets. In one embodiment the vapor cell has opposing windows positioned at a Brewster's angle and rotated 90° relative to each other. The laser produces a very narrow bandwidth of a predetermined wavelength with high power. The laser configuration eliminates several optical components reducing cost.