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.
Although dry‑fire cannot replace live‑fire training, it supports nearly all fundamental skills, including malfunction drills and reloading. Its convenience and safety make it valuable for both new and experienced shooters.
Laser Training
Integrating laser‑based tools enhances dry‑fire practice by providing visible, real‑time feedback that simulates bullet impact. Laser cartridges or laser training pistols, such as the Mantis TitanX, or the Mantis Blackbeard and BlackbeardX Trigger Reset Systems, allow shooters to use their actual firearms and holsters. Many systems exist, but capabilities vary widely; among them, the Mantis Laser Academy stands out as one of the most comprehensive options.
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.
Advantages and Limitations
Laser‑enhanced dry‑fire training offers cost efficiency, convenience, safety, and immediate feedback. However, it cannot replicate recoil or the physical dynamics of live fire. Some firearms may require manual slide manipulation unless paired with a reset trigger kit. Lighting conditions can also affect shot detection.
Who Benefits
The 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
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.