This article is strictly about the Mantis Laser Academy free version of the app. It explains why it is the best laser dry fire app. We’ll cover the paid version in a future article. We are starting with the free because it is accessible to anyone on Android/iOS. We signed out of our paid account to get accurate screenshots and demos. Then, we started a new account for this purpose. Stay tuned for more info about a Training Group for training encouragement and friendly challenges.
See our Article about our Budget Laser Dry Fire setup for pre-requisites to this article.
Why Laser Dry Fire?
The general consensus is that laser dry fire training does translate to accuracy on the range because it reinforces proper sight alignment, trigger control, and muscle memory. By consistently practicing with a laser system, shooters tend to develop smoother, more precise trigger pulls, leading to reduced flinching and tighter shot groups when they transition to live ammunition.
In firearm training, dry fire practice is an essential skill-building tool that helps shooters improve accuracy, trigger control, and overall proficiency without expending live ammunition. Innovative solutions like the Mantis Laser Academy have emerged to enhance the experience. In this article, we’ll explore how the free version of the Mantis Laser Academy app can be a valuable asset for shooters looking to improve their skills.
What is the Mantis Laser Academy?
Mantis, known for its high-tech firearm training solutions, offers the Laser Academy app as a way to provide structured and interactive dry fire training. The system uses a laser training cartridge that fits into your firearm’s chamber and emits a laser pulse when the trigger is pulled. The app then registers the laser hits on a target, providing instant feedback and performance analysis. This requires the app installed on a smartphone and targets printed out or custom targets added in the app. The phones camera is pointed at the targets and it detects the laser “hits” on the targets and scores them and times them.
Features of the Free Version
The free version of the Mantis Laser Academy app provides several key features that make it an excellent option for shooters looking to get started with laser dry fire training. Some of the benefits include:
- Three Tutorials: These tutorials teach shooters about the basics of the app, how to set a laser offset, and how to create manual targets.
- Training Course: Pistol Marksmanship Course & Pistol Marksmanship Test – This course and test will go through the fundamentals of pistol marksmanship with
- Videos: 23 videos designed to teach new shooters the basics and dives deeper into the app and how to get the most out of it.
- Basic Training Modes: The free version includes access to key drills such as Open Shooting (single target), Bells, Bullseye 5-Shot, Shot From Guard/Low Ready, Duel – Single Shot, and DCS Challenges.
- Instant Shot Detection: The app registers laser impacts on a target, giving shooters real-time feedback on their accuracy and shot placement.
- Target Recognition: The app works with printable targets (available on the Mantis website), allowing users to set up a home range with minimal cost.
- Portable and Easy to Use: With just a smartphone and a laser training cartridge, shooters can set up their training session virtually anywhere. Common setups include Garages, Living Rooms, Bedrooms and even Closets. (Always be aware of your surroundings and potential backstops.)
Free Laser Academy Drills
Shooters can maximize their training by taking full advantage of the free drills available in the app, allowing them to get creative and tailor their practice sessions to specific skills.
- Open Shooting (single target) is perfect for reinforcing sight alignment and trigger control at a self-paced level.
- Bells introduces auditory feedback to help improve reaction time.
- Bullseye 5-Shot focuses on precision and consistency, helping shooters refine their accuracy over multiple shots.
- Shot From Guard/Low Ready sharpens draw-to-shot transitions. For those looking to improve their speed and first-shot effectiveness.
- Duel – Single Shot adds a competitive edge, pushing shooters to react quickly under pressure, and the
- DCS Challenges provide structured scenarios that enhance adaptability and decision-making. These drills were the product of a collaboration with DCS Training of Tempe, AZ. “DCS Training developed these Circle Targets for students to use in combination with their training to assist students in working from home with a dry fire exercise that can be transferable to the range.
These targets are to be used at 3 yards. and since everyone has 3 yards in their home, this drill is an excellent skill builder that simulates a 4″ circle at 3 yards, 15 yards, and 25 yards.”
By cycling through these free drills and experimenting with different distances, shot cadences, and training objectives, shooters can create a dynamic and effective dry-fire routine that directly translates to improved live-fire performance.
Should You Upgrade to the Paid Version?
There is plenty of utility in the free version of the Laser Academy app. For some people the free version is enough to get variety and fun out of laser dry fire. If there is a certain drill you want that is available only on the pro plan you can pay $4.99 per drill, which is an affordable option to get one off drills.
While the free version offers great value, upgrading to the full version unlocks additional drills and advanced features such as multi-target engagement, shot timing analysis, and competitive shooting modes. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive dry fire training experience, the paid version may be worth considering. Upgrading to the Pro version is a one time $49 fee that is available in the Mantis store.
Another Helpful Accessory
The Tap Rack dry fire dummy round inserts into the magazine. It prevents the slide from locking back when racking the slide. This is helpful when using the laser cartridge with a striker fired pistol. These types requires a re-rack after each shot to reset the trigger.
TRT Tap Rack Dry Fire Safety Training Aid
TRT loads into an empty pistol magazine; Perfect for use during dry fire training; Keeps the magazine follower positioned so that it will not engage the slide stop of the pistol.
Buy Now on AmazonFrequent Questions about Laser Dry Fire
What size room do I need?
Ideally, you should have at least one yard of space from the target. However, this system can work in almost any room. Even a walk-in closet can provide enough space.
Is it safe for my gun?
Yes, dry firing is generally safe for most modern centerfire firearms. Laser dry fire cartridges are designed with a protective end-cap to absorb the firing pin’s impact safely.
Is the laser dangerous?
Most dry fire cartridges use Class 2 or Class 3A lasers, which are generally considered safe with normal use. As with any laser, avoid direct eye exposure for safety.
- Class 3A (<5mW, 630-670nm) – Bright red laser, visible but low-risk with brief exposure.
- Class 2 (<5mW, 635nm) – Also low-power, relying on the blink reflex to prevent eye damage.
Our Improvements
Using laser dry fire has been a game-changer for improving our fundamentals. It’s really helped us focus on things like grip, sight picture, and sight alignment. We can do this without the need of live ammo or range time. With the laser’s immediate feedback, we can see right away if our grip is off. We also know if we’re losing sight alignment during the trigger pull. It’s like having a coach there, but without the pressure of a live session. The best part is we get to practice at home, which means we’re able to build better habits and fine-tune our skills consistently. It’s made a noticeable difference in our overall shooting form. We’ve been users of the Laser Academy and the Mantis app for over 2 years. We can attribute most of our improvements during that time to the laser dry fire sessions with both apps.
Final Thoughts on the Mantis Laser Academy
The Mantis Laser Academy free version is a powerful tool. It helps anyone looking to improve their shooting skills through dry fire training. With its intuitive design, instant feedback, and cost-effective approach, it’s an excellent option for both beginners and experienced shooters alike. If you’re serious about honing your marksmanship, downloading and trying the free version is a great place to start.
Since writing this article we’ve posted a video and review of the TitanX. In that review and video we talk about Mantis Laser Academy and how it works in more detail. Check it out here.
