It takes time and practice to become proficient with firearms. It’s an art that must be developed, and no matter how finely tuned a shooter becomes, shooting remains a perishable skill — especially with handguns. Even the most experienced shooters need regular practice to maintain their skills.”
Dry‑Fire Training
Ammunition shortages and rising prices have led many shooters to rely more heavily on dry‑fire training. Dry‑fire practice allows shooters to train frequently without visiting a range and has long been recognized as essential for building correct muscle memory. Dry‑fire training allows one to work on all of the fundamentals, including draw and gun presentation, sight alignment, sight picture, breath control, trigger pull, and follow through. Laser‑enhanced dry‑fire training takes it to the next level.
Laser‑enhanced dry‑fire training, using either a laser cartridge or a dedicated laser trainer, provides significant advantages in cost efficiency, convenience, safety, and real‑time feedback. However, it cannot fully replicate the recoil impulse or the physical dynamics associated with live‑fire shooting. Some firearms may also require manual manipulation to reset the trigger between repetitions unless equipped with a trigger‑reset system such as the Mantis Blackbeard or BlackbeardX..Dedicated laser‑training pistols, such as the Mantis TitanX, offer an excellent alternative for laser handgun training, delivering consistent trigger performance and reliable shot‑tracking without the need for firearm‑specific modifications.
I have both the TitanX and the BlackbeardX..They are outstanding training tools.
Mantis Laser Academy Laser Training System
Many laser training systems exist, but capabilities vary widely; among them. The Mantis Laser Academy stands out as one of the most comprehensive options. I have been employing the Laser Academy as part of my training since it was introduced. It is an outstanding training system, and it keeps getting even better.
The Laser Academy app offers a wide range of drills that support shooters at every skill level. These include basic shot placement exercises for refining accuracy and grouping, open shooting modes that allow unrestricted practice, and shot‑timer drills that measure draw speed and split times. The system also features duel modes for competitive training and progressive training courses that build skills in a structured, step‑by‑step format. Together, these modes provide a comprehensive training experience and allow users to track their performance over time through stored historical data, making long‑term improvement both measurable and accessible. The MantisX coaching is now also available in the Laser Academy app.
The Laser Academy system is well‑suited for beginners, experienced shooters, competitive marksmen, and professionals such as law enforcement officers. It provides a structured, data‑driven way to maintain and improve shooting skills.
New Additions to the Laser Academy System
Mantis has expanded the Laser Academy ecosystem with several new accessories: Laser Academy Smart Targets, Laser Academy Target Stands, and Laser Academy Phone Shades. These are now included in the Laser Academy Standard Kit and are also available separately.
Laser Academy Smart Targets
Laser Academy Smart Targets are printed on high‑contrast, camera‑readable material that ensures consistent shot detection. Each target includes a unique visual pattern recognized by the app for proper alignment and calibration. They are available in multiple formats, including bullseyes, IPSC‑style silhouettes, and scenario‑based layouts.
The system supports automated scoring, digital overlays, and multi‑target drills, enabling shooters to practice transitions and situational awareness. Lighting conditions may influence performance, so evenly lit environments are ideal.
The Smart Targets are printed on heavy‑duty 14‑point card stock and come in three different sizes: 5″ × 7″, 8.5″ × 11″, and 17″ × 22″,. The 5″ × 7″ targets are $14.99 for a pack of ten. The 8.5″ × 11″ will run you $24.99. The 17″ × 22″, is available for $64.99 per set. For those who prefer to print their own, all targets can also be downloaded at no cost here: Laser Academy Targets
Laser Academy Target Stands
The Laser Academy Target Stands provide a stable, adjustable platform for mounting Smart Targets. Constructed from lightweight metal, they remain steady on various surfaces and resist tipping due to their wide bases. They can be quickly disassembled for compact storage, making them ideal for home training environments.
The stands accommodate both standard and oversized targets, supporting precision drills and defensive‑style layouts. They are sold in sets of five for $15.00.
Laser Academy Phone Shades
Lighting conditions can affect shot detection. The Laser Academy Phone Shades improve shot detection in bright or uneven lighting by blocking excess ambient light from the smartphone camera. They slip over the device without adhesives and come in multiple sizes and shading levels.
Each set includes four shades—two sizes, each with two levels of darkness—packaged in a velvet drawstring bag. This allows users to fine‑tune light reduction for optimal performance. The shades are compact, portable, and priced at $14.99 when purchased separately.
Final Thoughts
The Mantis Laser Academy continues to stand out as one of the most effective and accessible dry‑fire training systems available today. It builds on the long‑recognized value of dry‑fire practice by adding structure, measurable feedback, and modern technology, allowing shooters to refine essential skills without the cost or constraints of live‑fire sessions. As the document notes, “shooting is a perishable skill,” and tools that support frequent, high‑quality practice are invaluable for maintaining proficiency.
With the addition of Smart Targets, Target Stands, and Phone Shades, the Laser Academy ecosystem has become even more versatile and user‑friendly. These enhancements improve accuracy, reliability, and convenience, giving shooters more control over their training environment and enabling a wider range of drills. Whether used by beginners building foundational skills or experienced shooters looking to maintain sharpness between range visits, the system offers a practical, cost‑effective way to stay engaged and continually improve.
In an era when rising ammunition costs, limited range access, and demanding schedules can restrict live‑fire training, the Mantis Laser Academy offers a highly effective alternative. It enables consistent, structured practice, reinforces proper fundamentals, and helps shooters of all experience levels build and maintain the confidence that only regular training can deliver. I recommend it without hesitation.
All Mantis products are made in the USA and come with a 34-day money back guarantee.
Source
Mantis | Dry Fire Training System & Training Aids
Material Disclosure
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.
*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.