Abstract: A non-contact, laser detection system for detecting the extended state of an object in continuous motion such as a drill bit. For detecting the state of sufficient or insufficient flute length of the drill bit, the drill bit is moved in relation to the laser detection system until energy reflected from the tip of the drill bit is detected. Then, the drill bit is moved in relation to the laser detection system a pre-selected distance from the point at which the tip was initially detected, to a second point where the energy reflected from the drill bit is analyzed by a computer to determine if the laser is still incident on the fluted section of the drill bit. If the computer determines that the laser is still incident on the fluted section, then the flute length of the drill bit is at least as long as the preselected distance.