Have you heard of MANTIS before? It’s one of the most valuable training systems you can buy — and not just because it’s affordable. It allows you to train at home or anywhere else without using any ammo.
For years, MANTIS has been developing systems that help you train with your firearm while providing real-time feedback. If you’re wondering why you shoot low and to the left, too far to the right, or have any other inconsistencies, MANTIS can help diagnose and correct the issue.
My first MANTIS system was the MANTIS X, a small device that attaches to the Picatinny rail of your handgun (where a weapon light would go). When I pull the trigger—or perform various other tasks—it measures barrel movement and provides feedback.
Even without live fire, this helps build muscle memory and gives you a clear picture of what you’re doing right and what needs work.
I carried a Glock 17 on duty for years, so naturally, I used the MANTIS X system with my Glock 17. The only drawback with this type of gun (single-action) is that you have to reset the trigger after each shot. It’s not a huge issue, but continuous trigger pull would be nice, right?
Well, MANTIS solved this issue for rifles with the release of the Blackbeard system. It’s been so popular that they’ve expanded its lineup.
Blackbeard AK-47
If you haven’t used the Blackbeard system yet, you’re missing out. It’s been available for the AR-15 and MCX for a while now, and this year, MANTIS has expanded it to the AR-10 and SCAR, with an AK-47 version coming soon.
If you’re not familiar with the Blackbeard system, it replaces the bolt and magazine in your rifle, providing a continuous trigger pull with the same weight and reset as the real thing. It also has a built-in laser that shines through the barrel, allowing you to see exactly where your shots are hitting.
The system pairs with the “MantisX” app, which provides detailed feedback on your shooting habits to help you improve. Using the app, you can run timed drills, multiple target drills, draw-to-fire exercises, and more.
While this stand-alone system is super handy and fun, it’s also compatible with a new system launching this year. During SHOT 2025, MANTIS debuted the Raven system, which is set for release in the near future—but we’ll get to that later.
First, let’s talk about handguns.
Titan X Pistol
Another cool product set to release soon is the Titan X laser pistol. Unlike the Blackbeard system, which uses your current rifle, the Titan X is a complete training pistol. The first available model will replicate Glock 19 style handguns, with a Sig version to follow, along with other popular models. That means your Glock accessories — including lights, holsters, and optics — will work seamlessly with the Glock-style Titan X.
It has a realistic trigger pull and a built-in laser that flashes when the trigger is pulled, providing instant feedback of where your shot would have hit.
Just like the Blackbeard, this Titan X will work with the MantisX app so you can run some drills and improve your handgun skills. I’m really looking forward to this one because you can simulate most range drills right in your home.
Nothing replaces real training on the range, and you should always find time to hit the range. But this system allows you to still get in some training during those times when it’s not possible to make it to the range.
This not only saves you some money, but it provides some insight and well, it’s downright cool.
But wait, that’s not all… Sorry, I had to throw in a little infomercial terminology in here somewhere!
While the Titan X is an awesome addition to the Blackbeard system, MANTIS has two other systems in the works that will also be compatible with the Titan X and Blackbeard.
The first is the Raven system which is surprisingly cheap and, not surprisingly, a “blast.” And now I’ve thrown in some pun as well.
The all-new projector-based Raven system
I was excited to see the Titan X at the MANTIS booth, but the Raven system just about takes the gold medal. Well, at least until you hear what they are working on next…
The Raven system is a simple app that works with a projector and allows you to shoot targets on the wall of your home with both the Blackbeard and Titan X systems.
While you can train with this system and work on your speed, accuracy and more, you can also have some fun. One map allows you to shoot zombies, which always makes a training day a fun day right?
From what I understand, you will be able to purchase an entire package that includes a projector and training platform. You will also be able to purchase a training system separately (Blackbeard or Titan X) and use your own projector with the app.
A rep at the MANTIS booth said they are looking at releasing this system within months so be on the lookout for this inexpensive and super cool new system.
AR/VR Training System
Another training system MANTIS had on display doesn’t even have a name yet. An augmented reality system that uses goggles, an app, and yes, your real rifle (with Blackbeard) or the Titan X pistol.
If you think a screen on your wall is cool, this system takes training to a futuristic level. When you put on the goggles, you are instantly standing in a virtual shoot house. You can walk down hallways, enter rooms, and practice clearing them. When you spot an armed intrude, take the shot and the intruder goes down.
Can you imagine walking through your home and seeing bad guys standing right in front of you? That’s some realistic training.
From what I saw of this system, it’s like a video game for real-life training. This system does not have a release date and was available just to show what type of system MANTIS is currently working on. This would take zombie fighting to a whole new level…
Ok, I’ll stop with the zombies now.
Now there’s no excuse to skip training
MANTIS has made it possible to train with your own firearm at home, in a more realistic way than ever before. You can move, engage targets, and receive feedback. For handguns, simply purchase the model that matches what you carry in real life and you will be ready for any type of training.
There is no excuse to skip out on training. If you haven’t seen these new systems yet, check out the video of the SHOT 2025 MANTIS booth above. And keep an eye out for these upcoming releases.
