Mantis Firearms
Training System

I have a couple weeks invested into using the Blackbeard X IR. And I absolutely love it! I’m using it in tandem with a Hiperfire Competition trigger and a separately available Smokeless Range simulator system. I’ve been able to outshoot Smokeless’ ability to register multiple shots. But I have yet to be capable of outshooting the Blackbeard’s ability to reset the trigger in my comp gun. Trying it in several different rifles with varying triggers. I really like the feel of the Hiperfire comp trigger the best, as it seems to be the least amount of wear and tear on the Blackbeard to reset the trigger. With a very close proximity of the hammer to the Blackbeard. And a low impact force in the cocked position before the dual helper springs engage. The Hiperfire Comp trigger reset is essentially effortless and instantaneous for the Blackbeard. I confirmed a solid bore alignment with a set of DTNVG’s and the windage / elevation set screws. I then handled final “sighting in” through Smokeless. - With this setup, my zero is represented accurately onscreen through both my 45 degree offset red dot, as well as through my LPVO. The Blackbeard in tandem with Smokeless has been hands down the best training tool I’ve ever added to my dry fire sessions. I’m already planning on ordering a second unit so that multiple shooters can use Smokeless at the same time. As a side note. For either the Red or IR laser. You will not be able to align the laser visibly to the center of your optic at close range “less than 50 yds”. As a typical AR would be sighted in at 50 / 100 / 200 yards.

The ManisX joined with the laser training system provides not only a better way to dryfire but a full platform of learning to help you become more proficient with a firearm. From working on your grip and trigger discipline to helping with your accuracy. I love it!!!

My wife and I love the mantis! I use it in combination with a laser ammo cartridge and a smart dryfire mage for a p365 custom build. The cartridge included works well, but requires the operator to rack the slide each time, which is a number. Due note; if you want to drive from the holster or low ready, you are encouraged to pay for these. Also, if you want fun targets like the jingle bells target pictures here you must pay as well. Overall it's great practice for what is your most important shot, the first.

Great strong product. Also great if you have multiple AR’s so you learn the triggers on all your rifles. By the way it’s also great to save money on ammunition. Two thumbs up.

Bought this after seeing reviews on various websites and on social media. Wish I'd discovered it years ago. So easy to use and effective in sharpening skills without blasting through 100s or 1000s of rounds (read: money). Train at home, save dollars, get better! Now, this is has become my study and practice. Going to the range is simply the exam. Highly recommended.

I have used the Mantis Academy setup for years!! Upgrading and grabbing the Black Beard was a game changer but definitely not a disappointment! This setup allows for cross platform in home training from both 300Blkout and my 5.56 Builds!! One day I believe that one will be released that is compatible with Pistol Driven (JAKL) or even AK Variants...but until then, this current Black Beard X is a ABSOLUTE GAME CHANGER!!!

My wife and mom teamed up to buy me the BBX as a birthday gift. Even without the drills/shot timer/analytics, this thing has already paid for itself in less than a week in terms of cents per round savings. It also allows me to train more than I ever could to due to living in a metro area. While I have no comparison as far as dry fire training, this is pretty great.