If you’re eager to practice your shooting technique but not ready to use live ammunition, here are the best laser dry fire training systems along with my hands-on reviews.
FYI, prices and ratings are accurate as of time of writing.
1. Mantis X10 Elite - Shooting Performance System
Highlight: Enhanced app reviews performance, offering coaching tips and tracking your progress over time.
Helpful review: I’ve been into shooting for some time now, and after four months of using the Mantis X10, I think it’s time to give a full review on my experience. As most of us know, today’s ammo market annoyingly doesn’t seem to be getting better anytime soon. Fry fire is really the go-to for most firearms training these days if you ask me.
This Mantis dry fire system excels at this better than I ever could have expected. The two hundred and fifty dollars might sound like a lot but when you really break it down, it’s so much more valuable when you consider the cost it takes to spend on live ammo. And if you don’t know, well it’s about the same cost and that only gets you two hundred to three hundred rounds. Yeah, you read that right, about a dollar a round.
In other words, this machine has definitely paid for itself multiple times over, and if you're wondering if it works well, lemme tell you–it truly does. I've seen significant improvement in my accuracy and even on my holster draw. Now just keep in mind, you can’t expect it to perform perfectly outside of its primary function.
If you own a modern defensive pistol with a rail on the frame, you're definitely in luck here—this product is pretty much designed for you. It’s even better if it’s double action and you don’t have to rack the slide to reset the trigger. For practicing holster draw, you will need the stick-on rail segment for the bottom of the magazine, so just keep that in mind.
Attaching the sensor to older or different types of handguns can be a bit tricky if I’m being honest. Revolver and subcompacts, especially those smaller ones, might pose a bit of a problem. I haven’t tried it on a longer gun yet, but as long as you have a rail to mount it on or a good spot to stick the auxiliary rail, it should work just fine.
I also really like that there’s a sensor/app combo with the Mantis. It’s honestly excellent at analyzing dry fire, which can help you improve your trigger squeeze, grip, and even your sight alignment. I loooove the holster draw analysis feature. I my opinion, it definitely justifies the premium over the basic models. The scoring system is also straightforward and makes practice super fun, while the challenge program pushes you to work harder and even practice more. There are technique corrections which are super handy for shooters just starting out or those wanting to improve their technique.
Just keep in mind, Mantis isn’t a replacement for an instructor or even for live fire. It can take some thought to interpret your scores, especially single shots. Too much quick movement can also confuse the scoring algorithm, mainly if you’re measuring accuracy while dry firing from the draw. Its biggest flaw is really how it measures accuracy with live fire. What Mantis considers a good shot might not actually align with what’s considered good shots considering the recoil. At the range, I think it’s more useful as a shot timer than as an accuracy gauge.
The customer service for Manis is so great, and their development team is always working nonstop to improve the app. I’d really like to be able to download the app directly, in case Google and Apple decide it’s no longer politically correct, if you know what I mean.
A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
I’ve been shooting for twenty some odd years and instructing soldiers with the military for almost fourteen of those years. There’s really never been a good marksmanship assessment. I mainly stand there watching the soldier or giving some down range feedback on their round placement. This app is just awesome. It allows you to dry fire or even use live fire while getting instant feedback. With the rising cost of ammunition I really can’t recommend this enough. This tool is a fantastic alternative to a costly marksmanship day doing live fire. The app's competition feature also makes it super fun and engaging. You can tell it’s built from quality materials. I’m not a fan of the rail attachment being limited to existing rails or the sticky-on feature, personally I think it would be better to add a rail instead of sticking it on or making an additional purchase. Still, it’s a really great product. I watched my kids shoot, and everything was captured by the app. I highly recommend this product to everyone I know and definitely to all my soldiers out. Awesome device. Awesome work. Awesome app. — Jason Love
Get it from Amazon now: $249.99 & FREE Returns
2. Mantis Laser Academy - Dry Fire Training Kit
Highlight: Kit comes with adjustable tripods, laser training cartridge, twenty four heavy-duty smart targets, a portable carrying case, and target stand holders.
Helpful review: I waited a bit to review this until I had used it several times and could give a well rounded opinion. I should note, I haven't and probably won't use the live-fire features mainly cause I only shoot at ranges.
For dryfire training at home, it's a pretty solid tool. We train as a family, using the app as a type of game-style competition with our everyday firearms. We experience something like a twenty percent misfire rate, while the app takes count of all the shots that aren’t taken. This happens while standing still, but also while you’re in motion, and sometimes it double counts from the draw.
I guess it’s pretty normal for the app to count the shots even while I have it holstered. I should also mention that there's no cartridge ejection, so the firearm needs to be reset after each shot, which is what it is.
PROS:
– No recoil from the firearm, so anyone in the family can use it comfortably and most importantly–safely (once the weapon has been confirmed that its cleared, safe, and loaded with the laser cartridge).
– Trigger familiarity without the annoying anticipation of the recoil.
– Super easy to understand, set up, and use.
– Saves time from traveling to the range (and not to mention gas!)
– Don’t have to spend money on range ammo.
CONS:
– No recoil from the weapon, so there's no way to practice repeat fire if that's what
– The cartridge doesn’t eject, so the weapon needs to be manually placed back into the battery after each trigger pull. But in full transparency, I haven't found any other dryfire systems that offer this option, so I’m not entirely sure it’s even technologically possible.
– It's kind of common to experience dry misfires. Out of the three of us in our family that have used it multiple times, there was at least one misfire across a ten shot practice session. .
Overall, I really like it though and I’m happy I bought it. It's worth the price, and I do think that unlocking the premium features make the app worthwhile. If the app didn’t offer the premium features, it would be kind of pointless. It’s become a fun family game night, while also improving our actual shot technique and accuracy and saving time and money.
A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
Seriously, I wish I had bought this system long ago. It is soooo nice to be able to shoot in my home whenever I feel like it. The closest range to me costs almost forty dollars an hour, which is way too expensive, and the forest near me where I usually shoot is too cold to go out this time of the year–I’m far up north and the snow is freezing.
As far as sight picture and shot placement go, very realistic shooting dry fire practice. There are about twenty different drills which makes it so great to help with my dry fire laser training. Sometimes I go crazy and even practice without my glasses for an extra challenge. Not really crazy though, actually something I think everyone should do. At one of the FBI shootings, one of the agents lost his glasses during the shootout, which made everything more difficult for him and could have killed him.
I’m working hard on that one so that if I ever have to shoot without my specs, I’ll be just as good blind.
Setup was so freaking easy. I did have a little trouble redeeming my code to unlock all the training modules, but I bought the kit with the larger targets and the four foot high phone tripod. The smaller targets and the smaller tripod come with the higher-priced kit. The lower-priced kit would be fine if you want to save about fifty bucks, but overall, you can't really go wrong with the smaller system.
I ended up having to call the number included in the kit. I expected a long wait and the ring around, but to my surprise, the customer service answered immediately, but even better, he had answered all my questions without judgment, gave me the right information, and I was off the call in under two minutes flat.
I’ve shot around six hundred rounds using the various drills. I really like the reload drill where you eject the magazine, reload the shot, and shoot. The hits are scored and timed, and it’s super convenient. Just nice to know that I could reload and be back on the target as fast as anyone else.
If you're unsure about this, just do it. All my spare time is now spent in the garage. My wife has started to joke that the mailman is her new boyfriend because she sees him more than me.
I’ll wrap this up by reminding everyone that this is still a gun–definitely not a plaything. Use it like the weapon it is–a tool where you can practice everything from target picture, trigger control, draw and presentation, and handling. You’re gonna be saving soooo much ammo, and with it–mula. I’m blown away by this and I promise that you won’t be disappointed. — Bob Wertz
Get it from Amazon now: $159.99 & FREE Returns
3. Strikeman - Laser Training System
Highlight: Ideal for indoor target practice, this laser cartridge acts like a blank and is completely silent when fired.
Helpful review: This dry fire system is seriously an awesome value for what you’re paying. Beware, though there are two significant drawbacks: first, the pro-version of the app is pricey at ten dollars a month (anyone else sick of monthly memberships?) and second, setting up the phone to capture the target accurately is challenging. It usually ends up positioned kinda weird, making the pictures appear crooked when reviewing your shots. Despite these issues, I use it frequently, and my range scores have improved. If your weapon has like a red dot sight, this system works perfectly in tandem. Seeing the laser hits when you fire helps you understand how the red dot sight performs. I'd rate it five stars if the app were better and if there were a more convenient way to position my phone without obstructing the target.
A FEW WORDS FROM A NEIGHBOR:
I’m new to the gun scene, but I bought this to help me train and gain confidence before using live ammunition. I found the range intimidating and wanted to become more comfortable with my firearm. This system has changed the game for me. I finally feel like I know what I’m doing! My aim is like night and day. Initially, my average score was six and a half but within a few hours of practice, I raised it to eight and a half. This improvement is everything to me. Not only do I wanna be able to defend myself if the worst case scenario happened, but I also just noticed it makes me feel pretty good about myself. Finally have a hobby I’m proud of. Honestly, just can’t shout it from the rooftops more–buy this thing.
MY FRIEND’S REVIEW:
Although I'm pretty experienced with guns, the older I get, it's become pretty hard to get to and from the range for practice. I decided to try this system for home use. It's nearly perfect for practicing draw and aim at home without the need for ammo or a trip to the range. Loved the customer service—they've been friendly and responsive. I really recommend this to both experienced users and beginners. My only wish is for more target options. For what I wanted it for, it serves its purpose well. Even my wife gave it a try and her shot is turning out even better than mine! — Reev Jax
Get it from Amazon now: $99.99 & FREE Returns
4. Accurize - Shooting Training System
Highlight: Perfect for indoor dry fire practice, improved point shooting, and quick target picture.
Helpful review: The first thing to point out is the need to get to the website in the instruction pages so everything can be set up. They send a QR code to make this as easy as possible. This system comes with everything needed to get up and running in about ten minutes.
I got this laser training system to combat the old age and cold weather conflict that is happening in Utah right now. Maybe not old age yet, but the age I own right now gets more pronounced, and the colder I get, the closer I get to the range. The only thing I want to do at the range in the winter is get a rifle sighted for a customer due to the distance limits at the local indoor range. Shooting in winter is reserved for coyotes and maybe some trap shooting when a bunch of us all lose our minds at once and try to prove we are not over thirty years old anymore.
Let me start with the impressive packaging Accuraize uses for this product. This shooting trainer is shipped in an over-pack box, so the cargo is not damaged. The presentation box is covered in a white sleeve for more protection and a bit of advertisement. The presentation box uses a magnetic flap to keep the lid shut. The entire kit is put in its own space when it is opened. Each piece is packed and protected with open cell foam in a tight-fitting section to fit the part perfectly. I will keep this kit in this box forever. I may put this cool box inside a hard plastic tote case just to keep the black presentation box looking this good.
This laser trainer works by placing a laser unit in the gun's muzzle, so I will start there. The red laser emitter is an anodized aluminum stem that sticks down the gun barrel. Mine is in 9mm and will work for handguns and pistol-caliber carbines. The laser does not care; it just goes down the barrel of 9mm guns. This would work the same for 45 ACP and down to 22LR. I may review a 22 rifle and grandkids learning how to shoot later and if I can do that without their Mom seeing me do it.
The laser emitter works when it detects an impact from the hammer or firing pin drop. I can make the laser "shoot" by tapping the side of the laser with my phone with a rubber protection case. It is very sensitive. The red anodized part has built-in magnets to hold onto the end of the muzzle so it will not shoot out of the barrel for heavy hammer strikes. I have not tried to draw this form of a holster and shoot the target mainly because this thing will not fit in a holster from which to draw. I am absolutely positive that this laser emitter will stay in place for any training simulation for any user on the market.
The receiver holds the target, like a picture frame sitting on the mantle of my fireplace. The receiver, which I will just call the target form from here on, comes with a ¼ inch threaded nut on the bottom and a small tripod in the kit. The tripod is a high-quality piece of gear, works like a champ, and is very smooth when moving the legs and ball head. The ball head will make this target sit in any position I want. There is no sagging or weak friction fit. The target also comes with a charging cord, so it is not battery dependent; it just needs to be plugged in and charged or plugged in while using it.
The kit comes with seven different target inserts. From different bullseye types to some animal silhouettes for using a scope. I can put this across the yard and use a scope to see the tiny silhouette. The laser will register hits and misses and is very good at simulated shooting, even for distance.
The pages they sent in the kit to teach me how to make all this work are simple instructions and complete. This kit is easy to set up and use, even for the grumpy technology. All this happens because the laser shoots at the target and registers the hit or miss. All of this is controlled by my cell phone, which has become the range master. It will do the shot timer, shot placement, and hit-and-miss collection. It is excellent, easy and lots of fun. Using the computer on my phone also makes the competition fair and accurate. It cannot cheat scores, so I can't longer depend on that for a win. I may have to either get better at this or let the battery die and go back to scoring this on paper.
One last thing to point out, the inserted pages make sure to instruct the shooter or users about the dangers of laser use and eyeballs. Lasers are dangerous when pointed at eyeballs; that is the only thing they will hurt, and this one will surely not damage anything else. One thing that may happen without thinking is that users may point the laser at another while getting it set up or at themselves while inspecting the laser insert. When I take the laser unit out of the pistol, it is easy to forget it is shooting out lasers; as I shut off the unit, it will send a burst of three "dots" to tell me it is turning off. That burst can damage eyes if that three-dot thing is aimed at someone.
The best thing about this kit is its usability. The ease of use will work anywhere the tripod can sit on a shelf, or I can mount the picture frame thing on a hook on the wall if I want to. It uses the actual pistol I carry, not a simulated pistol made after a gun I don't carry. This dry fire practice with immediate feedback on accuracy and effectiveness is impressive and will improve any shooter's skills. — Gary Anderson
Get it from Amazon now: $259.99 & FREE Returns
5. LaserLyte Steel TYME - Laser Trainer
Highlight: Pistol is the size of a glock 43.
Helpful review: Some reviewers are pretty dang harsh on this pistol, and I get it if you’re a competition or extremely talented shooter, but the other folks could probably calm down a bit. It might not meet your highest standards, but if you're just starting out or a beginner or maybe you just wanna get better at handling a handgun, then this is the training pistol for you. I really like the smaller pistol as it matches my smaller, concealed Glock.
I’m pretty new to the whole concealed carry thing, but I really wanted a way to practice all those necessary skills in the case of an emergency, and in the state of the world today, who knows when that’s gonna happen. Doing some dry firing with your pistol definitely helps with some training, but I wanted to grab a target to see how it works and get some feedback after I pull the trigger. This tool gets it done. It’s seriously improved all of my shooting skills, and that’s exactly what I wanted.
I’m definitely not even close to an expert, and although I’m kinda good, I’m not anywhere near great, but that’s the whole purpose of practicing, isn’t it?
It's also so much fun showing the newer shooters, like my kids, how to handle and use a weapon in a safe way. Not only that, but I even got my ninety year old mom in on the fun. She doesn't even own a live firearm haha, but she loves this pistol and gives it all her approval. A really great tool for anyone wanting to improve their skills.
THOUGHTS:
- The trigger pull is way too long. I wish it had more of a real trigger feel.
- Size is odd. It could be a bit bigger. Similar to the trigger, it would be better if it felt more like a real gun when it comes to weight and size. This one kind of feels like a toy, but I guess that’s okay, because it’s not really real anyways.
- A good price and quality product for practice.
- Comes with an adjustable laser, but it needs a little tweak before you start shooting.
- You can mute the targets if you don't like the sound. Also, not sure if its just me, but kinda sounds like the two targets have different sounds, but it doesn’t bother me that much..
A FEW WORDS FROM A NEIGHBOR:
While I can't speak directly to the durability, overall, it seems pretty solid. I ended up getting the smaller one, and it feels pretty much like my real weapon. I don’t stress about whether it matches it exactly, mainly because I like to fire a variety of guns. I adjusted the elevation and windage a bit, and now it’s spot on, which is great. I love the sound effects and the targets are great. I’ve been practicing at a relatively long distance, so I can’t see exactly where I hit the target, but I can see and hear that I hit the target. I like that when it comes to self-defense, it puts me within an inch or tso of my goal target point. I really like how I can make the target silent, too. With the extra targets I bought, I can play around with different scenarios and test out and practice improving my abilities.
MY FRIEND’S SHORT REVIEW:
I really enjoy the gun, and I love how the target reacts to the laser. In terms of practice, it’s great, however it’s a bit small in my hands, and I bought this one to teach my wife and daughter how to handle a gun. It would be nice if it was a little more similar so it mock the real thing. For the most part, it really is the best on the market for indoor training. If you like shooting for practice, then you’ll love this same. Your wallet will also thank you. It might feel like a toy, but remember, it’s definitely not, so treat it just like you would any weapon. — Alex Zachry
Get it from Amazon now: $149.99 & FREE Returns
6. BOOLIT EYE - Dry Fire Training System
Highlight: Easily adjust the light setting dial to work in various lighting conditions.
Helpful review: I purchased this cartridge for my new AR fifteen. I already use the Mantis system for my 9 millimeter. The Pink Rhino cartridge that Mantis sells is twice as expensive and not available on Amazon, so there are no reviews for the 223/5.56 version. I chose this cartridge to save money and was uncertain about its practicality for an AR, but I love the Mantis system for my 9mm handguns. Mantis also offers a battery-powered system for over $200 for the AR, but it requires part replacement. I wanted something simpler for home practice and range time.
Upon receiving the product, I noted that the batteries needed to be installed, though they were included. This cartridge is beneficial because it flashes on and off. I've read reviews of products where the laser remains on, which isn't helpful for Mantis training.
The initial problem was that the cartridge got stuck in the chamber, jamming the charging lever. I had to learn how to use the mortar technique to unstick the charging lever and a cleaning rod to push the cartridge out. When I contacted the company, they quickly suggested oiling it. Although I had already tried this, I decided to give it another shot.
I thoroughly oiled the cartridge and my new firearm's charging lever. I carefully inserted the cartridge and carefully shut the charging lever. This time, it worked. Each shot requires pulling the charging lever, which is still useful for sighting and familiarizing myself with the weapon. You still need a cleaning rod to remove the laser cartridge, but this isn't too difficult.
A FEW WORDS FROM A FRIEND:
I carry a Sig P365, and I'm considering switching because the Taurus at two hundred and fifty bucks is more reliable than my five hundred dollar Sig. The question is: is this actually the best laser firearm training system? Well, I don't know if it's actually the best, but it's definitely more affordable. No question about that. Now let me tell you, it works better with the Taurus due to its double strike capability, allowing you to fire multiple times with the laser cartridge in the chamber. With the Sig, you have to charge the gun before each shot. This is crucial to remember if your gun doesn't have double strike capability or isn't external hammer-fired, as you'll need to cock the gun before each shot. This system significantly enhances your aim and is worth the investment. It's accurate and easy to use, but be careful with the battery cap—it’s small and easy to lose. Thankfully, they provide two. However, there's no recoil, like at all. In real-life shooting, you need to re-aim after each shot unless using a low-recoil caliber. This system is great for learning to shoot accurately with both eyes open and without using sights.
DETAILED REVOLVER REVIEW:
If you carry a firearm, you really should be proficient in its use. While nothing can replace quality instruction and regular live firing at a range, sometimes you can't make it to the range or afford the cost of ammunition. So, what can you do? If you own a revolver, get some snap caps, laser cartridges, and this target. I find it best with a revolver because, unless you modify a semi-auto pistol, you have to eject and rechamber a round each time you pull the trigger. A revolver allows continuous trigger pulls, simulating multiple shots without moving off target. Always ensure your revolver is empty and keep live ammo in a separate room when practicing this way!
Depending on your revolver, you can load five or six laser cartridges or alternate with snap caps. Set the target where you want to aim for center mass, holster your revolver, step back to your preferred distance (three to fifteen feet) and rapidly draw, aim at the bullseye, and pull the trigger.
Don't use your sights like in target shooting; focus on the front sight and keep both eyes open. Eventually, you'll point the firearm instinctively, like pointing a finger. If a laser round is fired, the beam will hit the bullseye, and you'll hear an audible alert. If a snap cap is in the first round, pull the trigger again to activate a laser cartridge and see where the shot would have hit. Remember, this is more than laser target practice — it's about building muscle memory and familiarity with your draw, grip, sighting, and trigger control to consistently hit center mass. Occasionally, the laser would hit but not register, which isn't a major issue given the cost compared to more expensive options. It's not ideal for long-range practice but is an excellent training aid for close-quarter practice. — Donald Adamov
Get it from Amazon now: $65.99 & FREE Returns
7. Mantis X3 - Realtime Performance System
Highlight: Suitable for both live fire and dry fire on your firearm.
Helpful review: Right out the gate, this thing worked wonderfully and I noticed such a fast improvement on my shot accuracy. However, just the next day, the unit lost its Bluetooth connection in the middle of a session and wouldn't reconnect. I couldn't even power it off to restart.
Mantis customer service told me to let the battery completely discharge and then fully recharge it. It worked, but not for long. The unit got back on, but I had a hunch and tested it again by powering it off again. It worked fine until I started a new session, during which the same problem recurred after four shots. It wouldn’t connect or power down. Mantis acknowledged that this is an ongoing issue with some units and hasn't found a solution yet. The representative assisting me has been helpful and responsive.
They are sending me a replacement unit, which is pretty cool. Overall, I’d give the customer service top scores.
When the unit worked, it was seriously outstanding, and I highly recommend it for shooters of all levels. I look forward to receiving my replacement X3 to continue training. Given how pricey ammunition is these days–anywhere from seventy cents to a dollar and a half per round–this system is gonna save me money and pay for itself in just a few weeks.
ON TO MY FRIEND’S REVIEW:
This training aid is amazing. I’ve always loved incorporating dry fire training into my routine, and this device enhances it with tips, training suggestions, and performance tracking. It detects subtle movements in grip and trigger pull, providing objective feedback on your training.
However, there are some cons, and I wanna be transparent ‘bout that. On certain guns, it misinterprets other movements as a trigger pull, especially if the gun has a thumb safety with a stiff detent or a very light trigger pull. I own several guns, and while it works great with some, it just kinda useless with others, so keep that in mind. If you only have one gun, though, this could be a real issue if your gun has these specific problems, and there's no way to know before purchasing.
Overall, I can’t complain too much, because it does work for me, but it might not for everyone. I’d check first before taking the plunge. If it does work though, you’ll like it. It’s a good product and really makes dry fire training more effective and enjoyable. — Anthony Moses
Get it from Amazon now: $169.99 & FREE Returns