If you’ve been shooting for a while, you’ve probably heard the best shooters talk about dry-fire training.
Dry fire training is a practice technique that simulates shooting and manipulating a firearm without using live ammunition. Instead, shooters use an unloaded gun to safely practice their shooting skills virtually anywhere without the expense, noise, and hazards associated with using live rounds.
Dry fire training is important for gun enthusiasts because it helps them become more comfortable, confident, and competent with their firearms while developing ‘muscle memory’ and refining their skills. Those who dry fire often see a dramatic improvement in accuracy, faster shooting speeds, and better overall performance in real-world shooting scenarios.
While many agree dry fire practice is an essential component of any training regimen, many people find dry fire training boring. Shooters rather shoot for live ammo at a range.
This is where dry fire training systems come into the picture.
They can make dry fire practice more efficient, effective, and fun, by providing realistic simulations, immediate feedback, and a wider variety of training scenarios than just using an unloaded gun.
Shooting is a perishable skill, so making dry practice enjoyable helps encourage people to continue practicing.
We’ve used all of the major dry fire training systems in the market, which we’ll be sharing with you later in this article.
But, let’s start with the best dry fire training systems based on our extensive testing.
Let’s get to it…
Top 10 Dry Fire Training Systems You Need to Try
We’ve tried every major dry-fire training tool on the market, and our cadre thinks the following training aids are the best overall.
Each product has its pros and cons that address one or more specific skill sets. Not one product on the market does it all, but each one will help make you a better shooter.
That said, before getting to the list, here are our recommendations based on common use cases and categories:
-
Best Overall: Mantis X10 Elite and the Mantis Laser Academy
-
Best for AR-15s: Mantis Blackbeard X
-
Best for Beginners: SIRT Pistol and Dummy Rounds
-
Best for Simulating Recoil: Laser Ammo’s Recoiled Enabled Pistols (if you want to use a training gun) and Coolfire Trainer (for your own gun)
Now, here’s the list of the best dry fire training systems with their key features and benefits.
How Laser-Based Dry Fire Training Systems Can Improve Your Shooting Skills
In our top 10 list, you’ll find quite a few laser-based dry-fire training systems.
They use a laser-emitting cartridge or a laser integrated into a dedicated training gun. When the trigger is squeezed, the laser device emits a brief red, green, or IR laser beam. This laser beam simulates the path of a real bullet and provides instant visual feedback on shot placement and accuracy.
There are two main parts to a common laser-based dry-fire training system:
- Laser Cartridge or Training Gun: The laser cartridge is a small device inserted into a real firearm’s chamber or attached to the end of specific training gun barrels. Alternatively, some systems use dedicated training guns with integrated lasers, often replicating real firearms’ size, weight, and feel for a more realistic experience.
- Target or Sensor System: The target can be a simple paper target, reflective stickers, or an electronic sensor system that detects the laser beam when it hits. Some electronic sensor systems can connect to a computer, smartphone, or tablet and use special software to track shot placement, timing, and other performance metrics, providing detailed feedback to the user.
Advantages of Using a Laser-Based Dry-Fire Training System
-
Safety: Laser-based systems provide a safe way to practice shooting skills without risking accidental discharge or injury because they don’t shoot a projectile.
-
Cost-Effective: Practicing with a laser-based system eliminates the need for purchasing live ammunition, which can be expensive, making it a more cost-effective alternative to live fire training.
-
Convenience: Laser-based training systems can be used in various indoor settings, allowing gun owners to practice their shooting skills anytime and anywhere without needing a shooting range.
-
Realistic Simulation: Many laser-based systems replicate the size, weight, and feel of real firearms, providing a realistic experience.
-
Immediate Feedback: Laser-based systems offer instant visual feedback on shot placement, helping shooters identify areas for improvement. Some systems also provide additional performance metrics through connected software.
-
Versatility: Laser-based systems can be used with various firearms and in various training scenarios.
Disadvantages of Using a Laser-Based Dry-Fire Training System
-
Lack of Recoil: Most laser-based systems do not simulate the recoil experienced when firing live ammunition, which may limit the development of specific shooting skills that require managing recoil effectively.
-
Initial Cost: While laser-based systems save money on ammunition in the long run, they can have a higher upfront cost than just using an unloaded gun for dry fire practice.
-
Compatibility: Some laser cartridges are designed for specific calibers, meaning users with multiple firearms may need to purchase different laser cartridges or adapters to practice with each gun. In addition, some laser cartridges may not work with specific laser targets.
-
Technical Issues: Electronic sensor systems and related software may occasionally experience technical issues or glitches, which could impact training sessions.
Improve Your Shooting Accuracy with These Computer-Based Dry Fire Training Systems
As referenced in the previous section, some laser training systems work with specialized software applications. Combined with laser-emitting devices or sensors, these applications are computer-based dry-fire training systems that provide detailed feedback on your shooting performance.
Computer-based dry-fire training tools fall into two major categories.
- Laser Cartridges or Training Guns Combined with Camera System Software: As discussed above, when a shooter fires a laser beam from a laser cartridge or laser training gun, a computer or smartphone captures the laser’s impact point on a target. The camera system sends the captured data to a connected computer, smartphone, or tablet running specialized dry-fire training software. This software processes the data, tracks shot placement, timing, and other performance metrics, providing real-time feedback to the shooter.
- Sensors Attached to Firearms: Another option uses sensors attached to a firearm that detect the movement of a gun, such as with the Mantis X10 Elite. Sensors collect hundreds, if not thousands, of data points, which computer software analyzes. The software offers various features for analysis, such as displaying shot groupings, calculating accuracy scores, and identifying patterns or areas for improvement. Users can track their progress over time and adjust their training routine based on the feedback provided by the software.
Advantages of Computer-Based Dry-Fire Training Systems
Like laser-based systems, computer-based dry-fire tools offer safety, cost-effectiveness, convenience, real-time feedback, and versatility.
Beyond that, computer-based dry-fire systems provide more detailed analysis and feedback on performance.
Moreover, they provide better progress-tracking features. Shooters can track their progress over time, allowing them to analyze their performance and improvement trends.
Lastly, several software applications will provide you with specific pointers based on areas you need to improve, sometimes offering video instruction, too.
Disadvantages of Computer-Based Dry-Fire Training Systems
Dry-fire training systems, like laser-based tools, can have a high initial cost, lack recoil, and may have compatibility and technical issues.
In addition, there can be a learning curve to using software. Some shooters may find setting up and using a computer-based system challenging, especially if they are not tech-savvy.
Recoil Systems: The Secret Weapon for Effective Dry Fire Training
If you’re serious about firearms training and dry fire, you’ll likely use a recoil-enabled dry fire pistol at some point.
They function a lot like laser pistols, but they also simulate the recoil of a real firearm during dry-fire training, providing a more realistic experience and helping users develop the necessary skills to manage recoil effectively. These systems can either be standalone training guns or attachments that can be added to a real firearm.
Typically, the recoil simulation mechanism relies on compressed gas, such as CO2 or gas, that creates a force that pushes the slide backward, mimicking the recoil experienced during live fire.
Airsoft pistols that have been converted to shoot a laser with every trigger pull are the most common option in the market. They are replicas of real firearms in design and weight, so everything will feel the same when you practice while saving your actual firearm from wear and tear. We like and recommend Laser Ammo’s Recoil Enabled Pistols.
If you want to use your own pistol instead of an airsoft pistol, a great option is the Cool Fire Trainer. It replaces your live fire barrel inside your real pistol, and each trigger squeeze will activate a CO2-powered mechanism to cycle your pistol’s slide and provide recoil (while emitting a laser with each shot).
Advantages of Recoil Systems
The big advantage is the ability to simulate recoil.
One of the challenges to proper dry fire training, in general, is for shooters to use the same technique and grip pressures they would when firing a real gun with live ammo.
When a shooter fires live ammo, they tend to grip harder because of the little explosion in their hands. This is needed to help control the gun.
For the average shooter, during dry fire drills, they may not have a proper grip. They likely aren’t gripping their gun hard enough with the same consistent pressure applied during live fire, which can engrain bad habits during one’s dry fire session.
Using a recoil-enabled pistol will provide some blowback, reminding the shooter to grip their gun as if using a real gun.
In addition, the simulated recoil will make one’s sights or red dot lift/move as if they were shooting live ammo. The shooter must learn to manage this blowback so that their sights return to their target efficiently and effectively, so they can take follow-up shots quickly.
Lastly, recoil systems allow users to practice their trigger control, specifically resetting and prepping their triggers as they would during live fire.
Disadvantages of Recoil Systems
Although recoil-enabled dry-fire pistols provide blowback, the recoil does not match the amount of force applied by ‘real’ recoil.
The recoil impulse from compressed gas is better than nothing and serves as a reminder to grip a firearm properly, but shooters must understand that they need to invest ample time in shooting live ammo to learn how to manage recoil.
Another disadvantage is that any training tool that uses compress gas to simulate recoil must be ‘kept warm’ to use for long periods of time.
For example, airsoft pistols typically use magazines filled with green gas. Initially, a shooter might be able to take 50 to 60 rapid-fire shots before having to refill the magazine.
When one refills the magazine with green gas, they’ll notice it’s cold. The colder the magazine, or wherever compressed gas is being stored, the fewer shots one will be able to take before having to refill the gas again.
Specialized Training Tools That Will Take Your Shooting Skills to the Next Level
Specialized dry-fire training tools are designed to help gun enthusiasts improve specific shooting skills and techniques without using live ammunition. These tools can be used independently or with other dry-fire training systems to enhance the overall training experience.
While some specialized training tools overlap with the preceding categories, specialized tools can offer more focused and in-depth training around a specific skill set or skill sets.
There are several dry fire training systems in our top 10 list above that fall into this category that we highly recommend, namely:
-
The DryFireMag: An automatic pistol trigger resetting magazine.
-
Laser Ammo’s Smokeless Range 2.0: A virtual range that you can use indoors.
-
Laser Ammo’s Reactive Laser Targets: Great, versatile targets to use with all major laser cartridges and laser firearms.
-
Dummy Rounds: They are low-cost and provide great training value, especially for beginners.
Are Dry Fire Systems Worth It?
You’re reading this article because you likely understand the value of dry-fire practice. But, you might wonder if these training aids are worth the money.
Dry fire training systems offer many benefits for shooters looking to improve their skills and maintain proficiency without using live ammunition. Here are some of the key features and benefits:
-
Safe Practice: Dry fire training eliminates the need for live ammunition, allowing you to practice shooting skills safely at home or in other non-range environments without the risk of accidental discharge or injury.
-
Cost Savings: Dry fire training systems do not require live ammunition, which can be expensive, especially for regular practice sessions. By eliminating this expense, you can save money while still honing your skills.
-
Convenience: With dry fire training systems, you can practice at your own pace and in the comfort of your home or any suitable space. This eliminates the need to travel to a shooting range and allows for more flexible practice sessions.
-
Real-time Feedback: Many dry-fire training systems provide instant feedback on shot placement, accuracy, and speed, allowing you to identify areas for improvement and adjust your technique more effectively than with traditional dry-fire practice.
-
Customizable Training: Dry fire training systems often include a variety of drills and scenarios designed to improve specific shooting skills. This allows users to tailor their practice sessions to focus on the skills they want to develop.
-
Eco-friendly: Since dry fire training systems do not use live ammunition, they are an environmentally friendly option for practicing shooting skills, reducing lead pollution and waste associated with spent casings.
-
Reduced Wear and Tear: Dry fire training typically causes less wear and tear on your firearm compared to live-fire training. This can help extend the life of your firearm and reduce maintenance costs. For example, when using recoil-enabled pistols, I prefer using airsoft replicas such as those from Laser Ammo.
Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Dry Fire Practice
Whether or not you use any of the products on our list or just an unloaded firearm when dry firing, keep these tips in mind to make the most out of your practice sessions.
-
Have a plan: Before starting your dry fire practice, determine what specific skills you want to focus on, such as trigger control, drawing from a holster, or target transitions. Having clear goals will help you concentrate on the areas that need improvement.
-
Create a dedicated practice space: Designate a specific area in your home or another indoor location for dry fire training. Ensure it’s free from distractions and has enough space for you to perform various drills comfortably.
-
Use a ‘real’ grip: Maintain the exact grip and stance you use during live-fire training to ensure consistency and build muscle memory.
-
Incorporate training aids: Utilize dry-fire training tools, such as the ones we’ve recommended in this article, to enhance your practice session and receive real-time feedback on your performance.
-
Focus on trigger control: Pay close attention to your trigger pull, ensuring a smooth and consistent press without disturbing your iron sights or red dot. This will help improve your accuracy during live-fire sessions.
-
Make dry fire a habit: Establish a regular dry fire training schedule to maintain and improve your shooting skills. Consistent practice is essential to getting better fast. In our War Room community, we conducted a challenge to have members dry fire every day for a month. After the challenge, dry firing became a habit.
-
Mix up your drills and exercises: Vary your drills, exercises, and scenarios to keep your training sessions engaging and challenging. This will help you develop a well-rounded skill set and prevent boredom during practice.
-
Record your progress: Keep track of your performance and improvements over time to stay motivated and identify areas that may require additional focus.
Here’s a video that will help make your dry fire training more realistic.
By following these tips, you can maximize the effectiveness of your dry fire training sessions and continually improve your shooting skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dry firing damage a gun?
Dry firing generally does not cause damage to centerfire guns. These firearms are designed to withstand the impact of the firing pin hitting the chamber without a cartridge in place.
However, for rimfire guns like .22 caliber models, repeated dry firing can potentially cause damage because the firing pin in these guns may strike the edge of the chamber, causing it to degrade over time.
How much should you dry fire per day?
There is no minimum or maximum number of times a day. It will all depend on your time and how much you can remain focused during your practice sessions.
Many serious shooters dry fire at least 15-30 minutes a day, 3-5 times a week. Professional shooters may dry fire daily and for 30 or more minutes each session.
The key is to be consistent, depending on your time and attention span. If you can only dry fire once a week, then be consistent.
Regarding the session length, you can keep going as long as your technique doesn’t get sloppy. If this happens, it’s a good indicator that you should stop for the day.
Can dry fire training improve my shooting?
It absolutely can! I don’t understand those who say they don’t want to dry fire or that they only shoot live ammunition.
The best shooters in the world all dry fire. It allows you to work on practically everything you can when shooting live rounds, except recoil management.
Do I need any special equipment for dry fire training?
Not at all. You can use an unloaded firearm if you want.
That said, I highly recommend using different training tools like the ones on our list.
They will make practice more enjoyable and help you improve faster, especially for beginner to intermediate shooters.
Is dry fire practice effective for both beginners and experienced shooters?
Absolutely. Regardless of your skill level, dry fire practice allows you to get in countless repetitions for free, practically anywhere.
If you use proper technique, each perfect rep will help you improve and burn your movements into your subconscious.
Can dry fire training replace live fire training?
You can accomplish a lot with dry fire training alone, but it will never replace live fire training, regardless of using a laser pistol with an integrated recoil system.
Technology has gone a long way to simulating recoil using compressed gas, but it isn’t the same as live fire when it comes to learning and improving recoil management.
In addition, for a lot of shooters shooting live ammo, the sound of a gun going off (i.e. the bang) and the face that they are using actual ammo can cause stress and anxiety. This can’t really be replicated during dry fire, so shooters need to practice at a live range, too.
Though dry fire training can’t replace live fire training, they complement each other, and serious shooters will do both.
Get Started with the Best Dry Fire Training Systems Today
The best shooters in the world will agree. Dry practice will make you a better shooter.
But, many people find it boring. Dry fire training systems can help make practice fun while helping you improve faster.
We’ve tried practically every major dry fire product, but the list we provided are the best. Check them out and start practicing!
If we left out a major tool that you’ve used, let us know in the comments section below.
Our Comprehensive List of the Dry Fire Training Tools We’ve Used
In coming up with our list of the top dry fire training products, we went through a lot of different tools. Here the the other popular training aids we tested.
