Dry fire training is the lifeblood of competitive shooting. It’s where skills are sharpened, techniques are tested, and shooters evolve without burning through their ammunition stash. But what exactly is dry fire, and why is it so critical to improving your shooting game?

Dry fire is the practice of simulating live fire exercises without using live ammunition. By using an empty firearm or a specialized training device, shooters can rehearse everything from drawing and aiming to trigger control and follow-through in a controlled environment. This not only reinforces muscle memory but also allows for precise adjustments without the distractions of recoil or the cost of ammo.

Why is dry fire important? It’s all about efficiency and accessibility. Unlike live fire, dry fire can be done virtually anywhere—at home, at the office, or even in a hotel room during travel. More importantly, it provides an affordable way to rack up thousands of repetitions on key skills like drawing, reloading, and target transitions. Consistent dry fire practice is often the defining factor between average competitors and top-tier performers.

With so many options on the market, deciding on the best dry fire training system for your needs can feel overwhelming. We’ve tested and compared the top contenders coming into 2025 to help you find your ideal training companion.

DryFire Reloaded by Ben Stoeger

What It Is:

DryFire Reloaded is a comprehensive book written by world champion shooter Ben Stoeger. It’s less of a gadget and more of a mindset, offering structured drills, insights, and methodologies to build a solid foundation in dry fire practice.

Key Features:

• Step-by-step drills for every skill level.
• Focus on fundamentals like draw, reloads, transitions, and movement.
• Emphasis on measurable improvement.

Pros:

• Affordable and timeless.
• Ideal for shooters who prefer minimalist training setups.
• Content evolves with the shooter’s progress.

Cons:

• Requires a lot of self-discipline.
• Doesn’t offer real-time feedback.

Who It’s For:

Shooters who want a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to training and are willing to put in the mental work to see results.

Strikeman Laser Firearm Training System

What It Is:

Laser cartridge systems are one of the most popular dry fire training tools. They involve inserting a laser-emitting device into the chamber of your firearm, which projects a laser dot onto a target when the trigger is pulled. These systems are excellent for practicing trigger control and sight alignment.

The Strikeman system uses a laser cartridge inserted into your firearm and an accompanying smartphone app to track shots, providing instant feedback.

Key Features:

• Compatible with most calibers.
• Tracks shot placement and offers accuracy metrics.
• Includes various shooting modes for added challenge.

Pros:

• Simple setup and user-friendly app.
• Affordable for shooters looking for tech-driven solutions.
• Great for honing accuracy and trigger discipline.

Cons:

• Limited feedback compared to other tech-heavy systems.
• Doesn’t incorporate recoil simulation.

Who It’s For:

Shooters looking for an affordable entry into tech-based dry fire training without overwhelming complexity.

Coolfire Trainer

What It Is:

The Coolfire Trainer replaces your barrel and magazine with a CO2-powered system that simulates recoil. It’s as close to live fire as dry fire gets.

Key Features:

• CO2-powered recoil simulation.
• Compatible with your existing firearm.
• Adjustable to mimic different recoil intensities.

Pros:

• Provides realistic recoil and slide cycling.
• Builds muscle memory for live fire.
• Excellent for advanced shooters.

Cons:

• Higher initial investment.
• Requires CO2 refills.

Who It’s For:

Shooters wanting to bridge the gap between dry fire and live fire, especially competitors focused on recoil management.

DryFireMag

What It Is:

The DryFireMag is a magazine replacement that allows shooters to practice trigger pulls with realistic break and reset feedback, without needing to rack the slide after each shot.

Key Features:

• Replicates trigger break and reset feel.
• Compatible with a variety of popular handguns.
• No modifications required to your firearm.

Pros:

• Enables rapid trigger pull drills without interruptions.
• Compact and easy to use.
• No batteries or additional components needed.

Cons:

• Limited to supported handgun models.
• Doesn’t provide visual or data-driven feedback.

Who It’s For:

Shooters focused on improving trigger mechanics and speed drills, especially those who value simplicity and minimal setup.

Mantis X10 Elite Shooting Performance System

The Mantis X10 Elite is a small device that attaches to your firearm’s rail, providing detailed analysis of your shooting performance through an app.

Key Features:

• Tracks muzzle movement, trigger press, and follow-through.
• Offers in-depth metrics and actionable feedback.
• Works for both dry and live fire.

Pros:

• Incredibly versatile.
• Comprehensive feedback for every shot.
• Useful for diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Cons:

• Requires some learning to interpret data effectively.
• Price may be prohibitive for casual shooters.

Who It’s For:

Data-driven shooters who want to dissect every detail of their performance and continuously refine their technique.

Mantis Blackbeard

What It Is:

The Mantis Blackbeard system transforms your AR-15 into a laser-enabled training tool, complete with auto-resetting trigger functionality.

Key Features:

• Drop-in bolt carrier group and magazine.
• Auto-resets the trigger after every pull.
• Laser feedback for target tracking.

Pros:

• Perfect for AR-15 users.
• Eliminates the hassle of manually resetting the trigger.
• Enables high-speed drills with laser precision.

Cons:

• AR-15 exclusive.
• Pricey for those without a dedicated training rifle.

Who It’s For:

Casual and competitive shooters who want to maximize their rifle dry fire sessions.

Ace Virtual Shooting

What It Is:

Ace Virtual Shooting offers a full-fledged simulation experience, blending laser-enabled firearms with virtual scenarios for immersive training.

Key Features:

• Realistic virtual environments and dynamic targets.
• Integrates with a variety of firearms and laser systems.
• Includes competitive and situational scenarios.

Pros:

• Immersive and engaging training.
• Excellent for scenario-based practice.
• Fun for both individual and group sessions.

Cons:

• Requires a significant investment in hardware.
• Setup space and compatibility can be limiting.

Who It’s For:

Shooters looking for a futuristic, engaging, and scenario-rich training experience that goes beyond static drills.

Considerations When Choosing a Dry Fire Training System

When selecting a dry fire training system, consider compatibility with your firearm, the types of drills you wish to practice, your budget, and the level of feedback you’re seeking. Some systems are better suited for beginners, while others are designed for advanced shooters.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best dry fire training system depends on your goals, budget, and training preferences. For shooters focused on fundamentals, DryFire Reloaded remains unbeatable. Tech lovers will appreciate the precision of the Mantis X10 Elite or the immersive scenarios offered by Ace Virtual Shooting. If realism is your priority, the Coolfire Trainer’s recoil simulation is a game-changer.

Whatever your choice, remember: the best dry fire training system is the one you’ll actually use. Consistency trumps all when it comes to skill-building, so pick a system that fits your lifestyle and get to work. Your next match performance will thank you!