Laser Dry Fire: Beginners Guide

Master Your Accuracy: Building a Budget Laser Dry Fire Setup

This article walks you through the budget laser dry fire training setup we started with. We’ll focus on the tools you’ll need. We’ll explain how they work together to enhance your shooting skills. You can improve from the comfort of your own home. It’s common advice to be putting dry fire into practice to become a better shooter. But standing around pulling the trigger over and over can get boring, so not everyone does it. With laser dry fire it’s an everyday ritual that sees more action than live fire. Check out beginners guide to see how to get started.

Read our article about the Mantis Laser Academy app.

Required Items for our Laser Dry Fire setup – for under $100 ^{_{*Excluding firearm}}

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FREE Version of the Mantis Laser Academy App Android/iOS – Laser Academy Webpage.
The free app offers 4 Fire Modes which is plenty to get your reps in and keep it interesting. 

Manually Download and Print the targets here – 12 Total Smart Targets available to print.

Laser Cartridge – $39-$80 depending on the model and caliber, here are some options.
Mantis/Pink Rhino Laser Cartridge – $39 on Mantisx.com
LaserLyte Laser Trainer Cartridge – $80 on Amazon
G-Sight Laser Cartridge – $36 on G-sight.com

Double Action (DA/SA) Handgun so the trigger resets after each pull.
(There are ways to do this with striker fired pistols, but the trigger reset options can get into the hundreds of dollars. These options will be covered in another article. You can use a laser cartridge if you’d like but will need to rack the slide each time. This is best suited for drills such as “Holster Draw, Fire 1” and reset.) If you do plan on doing this with a striker fired pistol, invest in some Tap Rack Magazine inserts.

We’re excited to announce a partnership with MantisX, a collaboration that allows us to bring you even more valuable content, insights, and exclusive opportunities. More in depth reviews of Laser Academy, MantisX, and their line up of products like the TitanX and BlackBeardX.

Why Choose Laser Dry Fire Training?

Laser dry fire training is a safe and efficient way to practice shooting without using live ammunition. Here are some key benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Save money on ammunition and range fees.
• Convenience: Practice anytime, nearly anywhere.
• Safety: With no need for live rounds, this can help reduce the risk of accidents.
• Skill Development: Improve your aim, trigger discipline, and overall accuracy.

Setup Step 1: Laser Cartridge

A laser cartridge is the heart of any laser dry fire setup. These cartridges are designed to fit into the chamber of your firearm, replacing live ammunition. When you pull the trigger, the cartridge emits a laser beam. This beam simulates the impact of a bullet on a target.

Key Features to Look For:

• Caliber Compatibility: Ensure the cartridge matches the caliber of your pistol.
• Durability: Look for a high-quality cartridge that can withstand frequent use.
• Precision: Choose a cartridge with a visible laser to accurately mark your shots on the target. (Mantis Laser Academy should work with most Red or Green visible Lasers. They will NOT work with IR Lasers)

Popular options include brands like LaserLyte, G-Sight, and Pink Rhino. These cartridges are easy to use and widely available. See the links above for examples of 9mm cartridges.

Setup Step 2: Mantis Laser Academy App (Free Version)

The Mantis Laser Academy free version is a training tool. It uses your smartphone or tablet to track your laser shots on printed targets. The free version provides 4 modes that offer a range firing drills to enhance your training sessions.

How It Works:

• Download the Mantis Laser Academy app on your device.
• Position your device to capture the training area.
• Select from various drills and exercises within the app.

The app tracks your shots and provides instant feedback, helping you identify areas for improvement. While the free version offers basic features, you can upgrade to the premium version for advanced drills and additional analytics. (The paid version will be reviewed in a future article.)

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Setup Step 3: Print Free Targets

Targets are essential for creating a realistic training environment. You can use:

• Printable Targets: Download and print targets from the Mantis Laser Academy or other online sources.
• Paper Targets: Standard paper targets are affordable and versatile.
• Custom Targets: Create your own targets using any object you choose.

Print the targets provided by MantisX, or use your own paper targets. Place the targets at varying distances and angles to simulate different scenarios. This versatility allows you to practice everything from close-quarter engagements to medium-range accuracy depending on your space.

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4. Double Action/Single Action Pistol

A DA/SA pistol is ideal for laser dry fire training because there is no need to reset the trigger manually by racking the slide. The double-action trigger pull allows you to perform multiple shots that will activate the laser each time. There is no need to manually cycle the slide after each shot. You can use a non DA/SA pistol for this budget setup. Just be aware that you will need to rack the slide each trigger pull. We’ve found this to be tolerable when practicing Concealed Holster Draws. It is also tolerable when firing a single shot to work on draw time and accuracy of the first shot.

Safety First

While laser dry fire training eliminates the risks associated with live ammunition, safety should always be a priority:

• Clear Your Firearm: Double-check that your pistol is unloaded before starting.
• No Live Ammunition: Keep live ammo out of your training area.

Be Mindful of Your Environment: Ensure no one accidentally enters your training space.

Setting Up Your Laser Dry Fire Training Area

Creating a dedicated training space ensures safety and maximizes the effectiveness of your sessions. We recommend following these steps:

1. Choose a Safe Area: Select a room with minimal distractions and ensure no live ammunition is present. Ensure your pistol is unloaded and that the laser cartridge is securely installed before beginning your training session.
2. Set Up Targets: Place your targets at appropriate distances and angles.
3. Position Your Device: Secure your smartphone or tablet to capture the entire training area.
4. Open the Mantis Laser Academy App: Open the app and pick the drill you want to do. Ensure the camera is pointed at and picking up your printed targets.
5. Check Your Firearm: Double-check that your pistol is unloaded and the laser cartridge is installed correctly.

Test the Setup: Fire a few test shots to ensure the laser cartridge and Mantis Laser Academy are functioning properly.

Training Tips and Drills

To get the most out of your laser dry fire setup, incorporate a variety of drills into your routine:

• Basic Marksmanship: Practice slow, deliberate shots to refine your aim and trigger control.
• Draw and Fire: Work on your draw speed and accuracy by firing as soon as your sights are on target.
• Target Transitions: Engage multiple targets to improve your situational awareness and transitions.
• Timed Drills: Use the Mantis Laser Academy’s timer feature to challenge yourself under time pressure.

Consistency is key. Dedicating 10-15 minutes a day to your training is enough to see noticeable improvements over time.

Conclusion

A laser dry fire setup is a game-changer for shooters looking to improve their skills without breaking the bank. With a laser cartridge, Mantis Laser Academy, targets, and a DA/SA pistol, you can create a comprehensive training system that fits into your daily routine. Embrace the convenience and effectiveness of laser dry fire training, and watch your shooting skills reach new heights. Remember, consistent practice is the foundation of mastery. Start your training today and see the difference for yourself!