A handheld LIBS analyzer includes a laser source for generating a laser beam and a spectrometer subsystem for analyzing a plasma generated when the laser beam strikes a sample. A nose section includes an end plate with an aperture for the laser beam, a purge cavity behind the aperture fluidly connected to a source of purge gas, and a shield covering the purge cavity. A vent removes purge gas from the purge cavity when the end plate is placed on the sample.