As a long-time firearms enthusiast and shooting instructor, I’ve spent countless hours on the range and exploring ways to improve skills between live-fire sessions. One of the most effective, and often overlooked, methods is dry fire training. And in recent years, the market has exploded with technology designed to make dry fire more realistic and productive. Today, we’re diving deep into the Strikeman laser training system, examining its features, benefits, drawbacks, and how it stacks up against competitors like Mantis and Coolfire. We’ll cover everything from 9mm dry fire rounds to advanced pistol sight alignment training aids, helping you decide if Strikeman is the right choice for your training needs.
Before we get into the specifics of Strikeman, let’s quickly cover the fundamentals. Dry fire training is practicing shooting your firearm without live ammunition. It’s a safe and cost-effective way to work on fundamental skills like grip, stance, trigger control, and sight alignment. According to the NRA, consistent dry fire practice can significantly improve your accuracy and speed when you’re at the range. It allows you to identify and correct flaws in your technique without the expense of ammunition or range fees.
However, simply pointing and clicking isn’t enough. Effective dry fire requires discipline, a clear training plan, and ideally, a way to get feedback on your performance. This is where laser training systems like Strikeman come into play.
Strikeman offers a range of laser training products, but they’re best known for their laser cartridges. These cartridges replace your live ammunition and emit a laser beam when the trigger is pulled, simulating the bullet’s path. This allows you to use them with compatible targets, providing instant feedback on your shot placement. They currently offer systems for 9mm, .45 ACP, .22LR, and even AR-15 platforms.
The core Strikeman system utilizes a simple laser cartridge. The Strikeman Pro, however, takes things a step further. The Pro version incorporates a trigger reset indicator, which is a game-changer for practicing rapid-fire shooting. It provides a tactile click and visual cue when the trigger is reset, helping you develop a faster and more efficient trigger pull. The Pro also often includes a more robust build quality and improved battery life. For serious training, the Strikeman Pro is generally considered a worthwhile upgrade. The price difference between the standard Strikeman and the Pro is typically around $50-$100, depending on the caliber.
The Strikeman laser cartridge is only half the equation. You’ll also need a compatible target. Here are some popular options:
For a more immersive experience, consider using a shot timer (Competition Shooters Best Shot Timers) to add time constraints and pressure to your drills. Also, don’t forget dummy rounds for dry firing to ensure you never accidentally load live ammunition during your training sessions.
I’ve personally used the Strikeman Pro 9mm system extensively with my Glock 19. The initial setup was straightforward – simply replace the live round with the laser cartridge. The laser was consistently accurate, and I was able to reliably hit targets at typical indoor practice distances (7-15 yards). The trigger reset indicator on the Pro version is a significant benefit. It forced me to focus on completing my trigger pull and resetting properly, leading to noticeable improvements in my speed and accuracy. I found it particularly helpful for practicing drills like failure drills and reload drills.
Battery life is decent, lasting for several hours of training on a single charge. However, it’s always a good idea to have spare batteries on hand. The Strikeman Pro feels well-built and durable, capable of withstanding regular use.
The Mantis firearm training system is Strikeman’s biggest competitor. Both systems offer laser-based training, but they approach it differently. Mantis uses a sensor that attaches to your firearm and provides real-time feedback on your technique via a smartphone app. It analyzes your grip, trigger control, and stability, offering personalized coaching. Strikeman, on the other hand, focuses on visual feedback through the laser and target system.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Strikeman Pro | Mantis X3 |
|---|---|---|
| Feedback Type | Visual (laser on target) | Data-driven (app analysis) |
| Trigger Reset | Built-in indicator | App-based analysis |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Portability | High | Moderate (requires smartphone) |
If you prefer a more data-driven approach and want detailed analysis of your technique, Mantis is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable and straightforward system that provides immediate visual feedback, Strikeman is an excellent option. Many shooters find value in using both systems – Mantis for in-depth analysis and Strikeman for focused practice.
Having the right equipment is only the first step. Here are a few dry fire pistol drills to get you started:
Remember to start slow and focus on quality over quantity. As you improve, gradually increase the speed and complexity of your drills. Resources like US Concealed Carry offer a wealth of dry fire drill ideas.
In my opinion, the Strikeman laser training system, particularly the Pro version, is a valuable investment for any serious shooter. It’s an affordable, effective, and convenient way to improve your skills between range visits. While it doesn’t replace live-fire training, it complements it perfectly. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a concealed carry permit holder, or simply someone who enjoys shooting, Strikeman can help you become a more confident and accurate shooter. Just remember to prioritize safety and always follow the four rules of firearm safety.
For more information and to purchase Strikeman products, visit their website: Train with Strikeman.