Mantis Blog

Making the switch to the red dot does come with an investment of money and time but it is clearly worth it.  The advantages are immense and when a quality red dot is purchased and full understanding of how to use it is implemented, it can drastically improve the speed and accuracy of your shooting. 

We recently created lite integrations that allowed Smart Targets with shot placement to be shown in MantisX Pistol/Rifle and for any X unit to have essential trace and trigger press feedback in Laser Academy.  In this article, we will be looking at how the Smart Targets have been integrated into the MantisX Pistol/Rifle app in detail.

Learn how courses in the MantisX Pistol/Rifle app help shooters build skills through progressive challenge-based training. From pistol and rifle marksmanship to concealed carry and BlackbeardX courses, this guide explains how courses work, what skills they develop, and how you can earn collectible patches while improving your shooting performance.

What if you could see exactly how your training is improving? Checkout the latest MantisX Pistol/Rifle app update!  It adds a new Basic BlackbeardX course and powerful course summaries to help you train smarter.

Most shooters train at the range with optimized gear, but real-world self-defense happens from concealed carry. This article explains why practicing from concealment—clearing garments, drawing efficiently, and building repeatable skills—is critical to performance when it matters most. Learn how to align your range training with everyday carry, develop reliable “on-demand” skills, and measure your progress to ensure you’re truly prepared beyond the range.

Curious what the Recoilmeter drill on the Mantis X10 Elite actually does? This article breaks down its four key recoil metrics and explains how to use that data in decision making. From comparing firearms and ammunition to refining grip and fundamentals, Recoilmeter provides objective insights that go beyond what you can see or feel, helping you make smarter, data-driven decisions in both training and gear selection.

Let's review key differences between strong side and appendix carry, including holster types, draw techniques, and safety considerations. This guide breaks down the “where, why, and how” of concealed carry to help you choose the best pistol placement for your body type, comfort, and performance—whether for competition or self-defense.

A holster does much more than simply “hold a gun.” The right holster keeps the firearm secure, protects the trigger from unintended contact, and allows the user to safely access the pistol when it matters most. From concealed inside-the-waistband options to open carry setups, the design, material, retention system, and placement all play a role in how effectively a holster performs its job. Understanding the core qualities of a safe, reliable holster—such as full trigger guard coverage, secure mounting, proper retention, and the ability to establish a full firing grip—can help narrow down the overwhelming number of options on the market and ensure the holster you choose is truly fit for its purpose.