Dry firing is a cost-effective way to train in the comfort of your own home. So, choosing a kit that fits within your budget is fundamental. However, for many beginner shooters, the various price points make it difficult to determine whether you are paying for useful features or hype. To help find the right dry-fire system for you, let’s discuss the Mantis X2 and Mantis X10 Elite.
Mantis Dry-Fire Systems: First Impressions
Both the Mantis X2 and Mantis X10 Elite arrived in a sleek, matte black two-piece box with a lift-up lid. Each contained an EVA hardcover zippered case and foam insert. For some, the appearance of a box may be meaningless. However, for those looking for the ultimate experience of receiving a package in the mail, presentation matters.
Right from the start, I was happy that despite the X2 being the more affordable option, it still felt luxurious.
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Inside the case, the X2 included a smart sensor, a USB charging cable, and a quick-start insert. In contrast, the X10 Elite came with a smart sensor, a BR7 Barrel Mount Picatinny Rail for rifles and shotguns, and a Universal MagRail adapter for archery, pistols, and rifles.
The kit also included a USB charging cable and a quick-start insert. Based on the contents of the kit, it is clear that the X2 is designed for pistol users, while the X10 Elite Shooting System is designed for pistol, rifle, shotgun, and archery users.
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Upon further inspection, I was surprised that the hardware on the X2 and X10 smart sensors was incredibly similar. The only noticeable difference was that the Mantis X10 Elite had molded grooves on both sides of the sensors to aid the user’s grip and enhance appearance.
Once I had each sensor out of its case, it was time to put them to the test.
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Getting Started
In three steps, setting the X2 and X10 up was incredibly easy.
First, I downloaded the MantisX app onto my mobile device. Next, I mounted the X2 smart sensor onto my firearm. If your firearm does not have a Picatinny rail, the X10 includes a Universal MagRail Adapter. I found it to be a nice added touch and wish the X2 also included one in its kit.
Once my sensor was attached, I clicked the device’s power button, opened the app, and followed the instructions it provided. After experimenting with the X2 for a while, I made sure I repeated all three steps for the X10 Elite.
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The app consisted of daily challenges, courses, and an assortment of training sessions, such as reload and cognitive drills. My personal favorite drill to practice was the open training drill because it allowed me to focus on my precision while shooting.
For both systems, the app also features muzzle tracing, trigger control analysis, consistency comparisons, shot timers, and history tracking. However, compared to the X2, the X10 features multi-target and holster draw analysis. This is excellent for those who carry concealed and want to prioritize this type of training in their routine.
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Additionally, the X10 is designed to provide data on your firearm’s recoil and how you respond to it when you use the recoilmeter drill the app provides.
Dry-Firing at Your Own Pace
Once I set aside time to practice with each shooting performance system, I enjoyed being able to work at my own pace. Even more so, I loved that the X2 had the same number of drills and courses as the X10. However, it does not include recoil tracking, multi-target analysis, and holster analysis.
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Furthermore, one of the most noteworthy aspects of the Mantis X10 is that you can train either in the comfort of your own home without ammo or at the range. Both training systems were simple to set up, and the app was fun to navigate. Likewise, each device offered a number of training drills that let me track every shot and strengthen my skills.
Is the Cost of Dry-Fire Systems Worth It?
The MSRP of the Mantis X2 is $99.99, while the Mantis X10 Elite is listed at $249.99. As a beginner shooter, it might be appealing to purchase the X2 because it is less expensive. However, it is fundamental that you select a system based on your training needs.
The Mantis X10 Elite is great for those who want to practice on and off the range with pistols, rifles, shotguns, and even archery. In contrast, the Mantis X2 is ideal for those who want a basic yet effective training system to improve their skills.
Whether you choose a budget-friendly or premium shooting system, both dry fire kits will save you money on ammunition. Not to mention making training fun, purposeful, and educational.
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