Momentum transfer from a laser-supported detonation wave to a solid target has been studied by means of a time-dependent, two-dimensional, two-temperature Lagrangian hydrodynamics code. Its dependence on laser pulse length has been calculated and pulse length conditions obtained for optimizing impulse transfer to a target of finite area embedded in a larger plane surface, taking into account the laser coupling efficiency. Computer solutions are compared with existing analytical models for laser-induced surface pressures and impulse, and a summary is given of the pulse time regime of applicability of blast-wave models proposed by previous investigators. Scaling laws are given for optimized pulses that predict the laser parameters required to deliver a given impulse to a target of given area in an atmosphere of given density.