Frequently Asked Questions

MantisX Shooting Performance Training System

Q: What does MantisX do?

A: MantisX is a shooting performance system that tracks the movement of your firearm and provides feedback to help improve your shooting accuracy. It is used for both live fire and dry fire practice, offering data on shot placement, trigger control, and overall shooting technique.

Q: How does MantisX know when you pull the trigger?

A: MantisX uses highly sensitive motion sensors to detect the subtle movements associated with firing a gun. It picks up even the slightest shifts, allowing it to precisely identify when you've pulled the trigger.

Q: How does MantisX know where the target is?

A: MantisX doesn't track target location. Instead, it focuses on analyzing the firearm's movement to track your stability and aim. The benefit of this is that you can use MantisX effectively without needing to aim at a specific target.

If you want to incorporate target practice, you can use MantisX with Laser Academy or live-fire training sessions.

Q: What targets do I use with the MantisX?

A: As mentioned, MantisX doesn’t track targets, but Laser Academy does come with physical targets and target stands. Need more info? Jump to “Do I need Smart targets to use the MantisX Shooting Performance system?”.

Q: Can I use my X2, X3, X7, X8, or X10 on more than one platform?

A: Yes. The quick attachment system makes it easy to move the sensor from one platform to the next.

Q: Will your MantisX Shooting Performance systems help me as a beginning shooter?

A: Yes! Built in coaching tips and instant visual feedback will help you master your trigger control.

Q: Will the MantisX Shooting Performance help me as an advanced shooter?

A: Absolutely. MantisX will help you hone in your trigger control so it's perfect every time, allowing you to improve your speed and transitions. Competition shooters love the MantisX.

Q: Is the MantisX Instruction Guide available online?

A: Yes - view the instructions here. The full Instruction Guide is also located in the app, under Settings, Instruction Guide

Q: What if my gun doesn’t have a rail?

A: We think that's a perfect excuse to get another gun. If your budget doesn't allow for that, buy a rail adapter for your gun.

Q: How long is the battery life on the MantisX Shooting Performance System (X2, X3, X7, X8, and X10 Elite)?

A: 8+ hours on a full charge. If you can shoot that much at once, you deserve a medal.

Q: Is my Mantis X supposed to have different colored LEDs? The instruction guide says I should have three lights.

A: The original Mantis X had three lights. Gen 2 models (X2, X3, X7, X8, and X10 Elite) have one light and this light is turned off when the battery reaches a full charge.

Q: How do I know if the X3, X7, or X10 is fully charged?

A: The power light will turn off when your device is fully charged.

Q: Will MantisX fit in my holster?

A: The original MantisX (without the quick detach screw) has been confirmed to fit well in holsters made to accommodate the Streamlight TLR-1/TLR-1 HL weapon mounted lights. Holsters designed for similar sized lights may also work well. Holsters designed to accommodate the Surefire XC1 or Olight PL Mini II have been confirmed to work well for the X2, X3 and X10 Elite. We also offer custom holsters.

Q: Will target practice at home with MantisX really help me improve?

A: 94% of shooters improve within 20 minutes of using MantisX.

Q: What devices are compatible with the MantisX app?

A: The MantisX app is available in the Apple App store, the Google Play store, and the Amazon Store. It will work on most modern tablets and smartphones (iPhone, Samsung, etc.) that support Bluetooth 4.1+ (with Bluetooth Low Energy support). Also, the operating system version must meet a minimum version requirement (currently 12.0+ for iOS and 7.0+ for Android, this is subject to change.)

If you're looking for an inexpensive tablet that works great with the MantisX, we sell the Kindle Fire on our store.

Q: Does MantisX work on a laptop?

A: No. Most laptops do not support the required Bluetooth Low Energy connection that the MantisX relies upon. You can, however, access all of your training data, new charts and graphs, and download your data, by going to MantisX.com and logging in. (Or click here)

Q: Why do I have to enable location services?

A: If you are using an Android device, the MantisX app will ask for Bluetooth and Location Services permissions. This is because it is possible for apps to determine your location using Bluetooth. We don't actually need to know where you are and don't track your location - It's Android's way of making sure you know that we could.

Q: Why does my Mantis sensor fall off during live fire?

A: The slot lock is likely not properly engaged in the the accessory rail slot. This lock (or plunger) is not just for tension, it is also to keep the MantisX from sliding off the rail. If your MantisX ever falls off, it is not properly installed.

Q: Will you ever be able to connect multiple MantisX units to one phone?

A: Probably not - Bluetooth uses a one-to-one connection, which means one MantisX to one phone. Unless future Bluetooth technology changes that, you'll need one phone for each MantisX you want to be using.

Q: What batteries does the MantisX take?

A: The MantisX has a rechargeable battery that is not user serviceable. It is charged by a micro-USB cable and lasts 8 to 10 hours on a charge.

Q: What calibers does MantisX work with?

A: MantisX works on any caliber of firearm, including harsh recoiling firearms. It's very tough - and if it fails during normal use, we'll repair or replace it for you within the two-year warranty period. See our torture testing here.

Q: How can I add notes to a session?

A: Tap on the note icon in the lower right hand corner on any of the diagnostic screens.

Q: Does MantisX work on both pistols and rifles?

A: Yes - MantisX has settings for being used with either a pistol or a rifle.

Q: Does MantisX support live fire and dry fire?

A: The X3, and X10 support both life and dry fire. The X2 is dry fire only. Read more about dry fire detection.

Q: Can I use the same sensor with multiple smartphones/tablets?

A: Yes! You can use the same MantisX with any gun or phone you own (though the sensor can only connect to one smart device at a time). You can also share your MantisX with your friends, although they might not give it back.

Q: I don't like to rack the slide/charge the bolt between shots during dry fire practice.

A: We have a solution for the AR-15, AR-10, Sig MCX, FN SCARs, with more to come. Contact us for other options.

Q: Does the MantisX app work on Android and iOS and Kindle Fire?

A: Yes. Play Store, Apple Store, Amazon Store.

Q: Does the MantisX app work on both tablets and smartphones?

A: Yes

Q: How does the MantisX stack up against other dry fire training systems?

A: We’ve created a dry fire system comparison page that lays out what you get from some of the top systems on the market to help you make an informed purchase.

Q: Do I need Smart targets to use the MantisX Shooting Performance system?

A: No. While you can use Smart Targets, these targets are designed for our Laser Academy system. The "smart" aspect of these targets is not integrated with the Shooting Performance System app.

Q: Is the MantisX Shooting Performance System compatible with SIRT pistols?

A: Yes, MantisX gen 2 (X2, X3, X10) is compatible with SIRT pistols. Be sure to enable the "SIRT / DFM" firing mode under SETTINGS > Shot Detection Mode > More > SIRT / DFM. The original MantisX was not designed with SIRT pistols in mind, but it will work in most cases by enabling High Sensitivity mode.

Q: Is the MantisX Shooting Performance System compatible with DryFireMag trigger reset magazines?

A: Yes, MantisX gen 2 (X2, X3, X10) is compatible with DryFireMag (DFM) magazines. Be sure to enable the "SIRT / DFM" firing mode under SETTINGS > Shot Detection Mode > More > SIRT / DFM. The original MantisX was not designed with SIRT pistols in mind, but it will work in most cases by enabling High Sensitivity mode.

Q: What do the red rings in the trace view mean?

A: Each red circle of the simulated target represents a certain degree of movement away from the point of impact for a shot. By locating the white X and identifying the nearest ring, you can estimate the degree of movement that occurred to cause the point of impact to deviate from the point of aim. The center ring of the simulated target in the Trace View represents 1/16th degree (3.75 MOA) of deviation. Each ring after the first represents 1/8th degree (7.5 MOA) of deviation.

What this movement means on target will depend on the distance between the firearm and the target. These linked charts (20 yard | 100 yard) provide a reference that can be used to estimate the possible outcome of the shot for a given distance between the shooter/firearm and the target.

Blackbeard/BlackbeardX Trigger Reset System

Q: What is sight height over bore and what is holdover?

A:Sight height over bore refers to the physical offset between the bore of the firearm and the aiming mechanism (iron sights, reticle in an optic, etc.). This offset will cause the bullet impact to be lower vs. the point of aim when shooting at close ranges. As an example, at 5 yards, using an AR-15 with traditionally configured iron sights, M193 ammo, and a 100 yard zero, the point of impact is expected to be approximately 2.46 inches lower than the point of aim. Holdover refers to the degree to which a shooter must aim higher than their intended point of impact in order to achieve that point of impact at close distances.

Image credit: captainsjournal.com

Q: The laser adjustment screws won't allow me to move the laser to match my sights/reticle, how can I fix this?

A: Sight height over bore for most firearms will result in the point of impact being lower than the point of aim at shorter ranges. At very close distances, this difference can be significant. Getting the laser dot to match the sights is likely physically impossible because the laser movement is restricted by the bore of the rifle.

Even if it were physically possible, setting the laser Point of Impact (POI) to match the Point of Aim (POA) at close ranges is not going to replicate the relationship between POA and POI that you will experience with live ammo.

Because of this, we do not view this physical limitation to be a negative. - That being said, if you have a reason for matching POA and POI, you can simulate this setup by using our Laser Academy system via modifications to the SHOOT TO CALIBRATE feature.

Q: What is this beautiful device (aka Blackbeard)?

A: BlackbeardX resets the trigger of your firearm (currently supporting most AR-15, most AR-10, and Sig MCX rifles,) so you can train without using all of your ammo, and without manually resetting the trigger after each shot.

Q: Which configuration/laser is best for my needs?

A: Get the non-laser version if you do not plan to use a laser enabled training system.

• Get the red laser version if you want a visual signature and/or you plan to train with a laser-based training system (such as Laser Academy).
• Get the green laser version for increased visible distance over the red laser variant. In equal lighting conditions, you can see the green laser at further distances than the red laser. This version is also compatible with Laser Academy.
• Get the IR laser version if you are using an IR-based training system or if you are using night vision.

Q: How do I adjust the laser?

A: There are two screws located on the side of the Blackbeard housing. These are accessible through the ejection port when Blackbeard is installed in the rifle. See this guide.

Q: Can I turn off the laser?

A: There is no "off" mode for the laser. However, a tactical barrel plug (tissue paper) can be used to block the laser if desired. Be sure to remove any barrel obstructions when you’re done training to avoid catastrophic failure and possible injury during live fire.

Q: Why can't I see the IR laser?

A: Infrared (IR) light is not visible to the unaided eye.

Q: Can I change the laser color later?

A: No. The laser components are not modular.

Q: Do the laser-enabled variants of Blackbeard work with Laser Academy?

A: The Red and Green laser variants are compatible with Laser Academy. The IR variant is not compatible.

Q: Is Blackbeard compatible with my rifle?

A: For Blackbeard and BlackbeardX AR-15, if the receiver accepts standard AR-15 Bolt Carrier Groups, triggers, and magazines, then Blackbeard is very likely to be compatible. We have run into a few cases where unusual trigger hammer profiles are incompatible, but this is uncommon. The system does not interface with the chamber. As such, non-223/5.56 chambers should work without issue.

The BlackbeardX AR-10 is designed to work with most DPMS and SR25 pattern AR-10s. Due to part variations across manufacturers, compatibility may vary, but our testing suggests issues should be rare.

For BlackbeardX MCX, if the firearm is a Sig MCX using OEM parts, then Blackbeard is expected to be compatible. Blackbeard may work with non-OEM parts, but Blackbeard MCX product testing was conducted with MCX firearms using OEM parts.

Q: Is Blackbeard compatible with firearms built using an 80% lower?

A: Due to potential deviation from specifications that may result from loose or inaccurate jigs and other variables during the completion of an 80% kit, we cannot guarantee compatibility. If an 80% lower receiver is finished correctly in spec, then Blackbeard should be compatible with that lower.

Q:Is Blackbeard available for PCC?

A: If your PCC receiver accepts standard AR-15 Bolt Carrier Groups, triggers, and magazines, then Blackbeard AR-15 is very likely to be compatible. Otherwise, a PCC version of Blackbeard is not available at the present time.

Q: Is there a Blackbeard for pistols?

A: Not at the present time.

Q: Does Blackbeard connect to the MantisX app?

A: Yes and no. Blackbeard original will only reset the trigger and emit a laser shot for laser-enabled models. The BlackbeardX will connect to the Mantis Pistol/Rifle app and provide shot feedback data. Alternatively, a Mantis X2, X3, or X10 can be used in conjunction with the original Blackbeard to collect data in the Pistol/Rifle app.

Q: Do I need Smart Targets to use Blackbeard?

A: No. Smart Targets are primarily intended for use with Mantis Laser Academy.

Q: Do I have to use MantisX to use Blackbeard?

A: No. Using MantisX in conjunction with Blackbeard is encouraged but not required.

Q: What is the max distance Blackbeard can be used at?

A: This depends on the users eyes (or the laser targeting system being used), the surface being shot, and the ambient light. The brighter the ambient light, the shorter the max distance the laser is visible at.

Q: Why can't I have it in the EU?

A: Due to regulatory requirements, we are unable to ship laser-enabled products to any country in the European Union (EU). The standard (non-laser) Blackbeard is available to ship to the EU.

Q: When can I purchase spare Blackbeard or BlackbeardX magazine packs so I can train for reloads?

A: Yes. Both are available on our website now. See the Blackbeard Magazine Powerbank page for both variants.

Q: On the Blackbeard Bolt Carrier Group, is the housing separation along the 6 o'clock side normal?

A: Yes.

Q: Does the Blackbeard kit include access to Laser Academy Pro features?

A: No. A Laser Academy full access code was included with some pre-orders for the Blackbeard, but that promotion has been discontinued as of January 2021.

Q: Is the non-laser variant of Blackbeard compatible with Pink Rhino Laser Cartridges?

A: No. There is no firing pin (or similar) mechanism in place which is required to activate the button on the Pink Rhino Laser Cartridge.

Q: Can I use the Mantis Blackbeard AR-15 in an AR-15 firearm equipped with the Law Tactical AR Folding Stock Adapter?

A: Yes. Remove the BCG and the Tactical Bolt Carrier Extension. Then install Blackbeard AR-15

Laser Academy Training System

GENERAL

Q: Do you have a guide for setting up and using Laser Academy?

A: Yes! See our Laser Academy Knowledge Center for in depth guides on all things Laser Academy.

Q: How does Laser Academy stack up against other laser-based training systems?

A: We’ve compared the best laser training systems for you here to contrast pricing, features, as well as customer feedback to help you discern the value of these systems before you buy.

Q: I received my Laser Academy kit, but did not receive the sensor that attaches to the firearm. Where is it?

A: Unlike our Shooting Performance System, Laser Academy does not utilize movement sensing technology to do its job. You can use both systems together but doing so is not required.

Q: What is the purpose of the small Bluetooth remote that is included with the large tripod in the Standard Laser Academy kit?

A: Nothing in particular. The remote is included from the factory but serves no purpose when using the Laser Academy app.

HOW TO

Q: Where are the instructions?

A: Within the Laser Academy app, navigate to Settings > Instruction Guide.

Q: The point of impact of my laser does not match the point of aim, can I fix this in the app?

A: Yes, this can be adjusted using the Ballistic Offset feature. This is a global setting that is changed within any of the drills, and once the adjustment is made, will affect all other drills. To access, open a drill (Open Shooting - Single Target, for example) > click on Settings in the top right, a new menu will appear > Scroll down on the new menu until you see Ballistic Offset > select SHOOT TO CALIBRATE.

Q: Where can I delete a shot or session?

A: Yes, sessions can be deleted. To delete, after pressing "stop" on the active session, click the three dots on the lower right, and choose "Delete Session". Past sessions can be deleted in the same manner by opening the session from the History tab. - Shots are not able to be deleted at this time. This will be added at some point in the future.

Q: How do I get a refund for an in-app purchase?

A: It depends what kind of phone/tablet you have. If you contact customer support, we will assist.

Q: How do I get the red coloring to go away?

A: Red color indicates areas that are over saturated/bright and will cause shot detection issues. To prevent problems, the app is programmed to ignore these areas.

Q: Can I add notes?

A: Yes. To add notes, after pressing "stop" on the active session, click the three dots on the lower right, and choose "Delete Session". Notes can be added to past sessions in the same manner by opening the session from the History tab.

Q: Can I designate pistol vs. rifle training?

A: Yes, go to the Settings tab (lower right) and choose Manage Arsenal to add firearms.

COMPATIBILITY

Q: What devices are compatible with the Laser Academy app?

A: Android (v7.0 or greater) and iOS (v15.0 or greater). Older devices will have stricter lighting condition requirements due to camera hardware limitations.

Q: Does Laser Academy work with the MantisX Shooting Performance System?

A: The two systems can be used in conjunction with one another. The presence of one system does not change how the other system functions. Two smart devices are likely to be needed; one for each app.

Q: What laser colors work with Laser Academy?

A: Red and green.

Q: Does Laser Academy work with IR lasers?

A: No.

Q: Does Laser Academy work with my laser cartridge? (G-sight, LaserHit, etc.)

A: If the laser cartridge is a red or green laser, then the system is expected to work.

Q: I bought brand X laser, will it work with Laser Academy?

A: We expect most cartridges that emit a visible laser to be compatible with Laser Academy.

Q: Can I use Laser Academy outside?

A: Yes. As long as the camera can adjust to the lighting and the laser is bright enough to stand out above the ambient lighting, using the system outside should not pose a problem.

Q: What is the max range Laser Academy supports?

A: The max range is determined by the phone/tablet camera and lighting conditions. There is no arbitrary max defined by the software.

Q: Can I use my DryFireMag trigger reset system with Laser Academy?

A: Smart DryFireMag models are compatible with Laser Academy. However, standard DryFireMag models are not, as they disable the firing pin function needed to activate the laser cartridge.

TARGETS

Q: How do I set up the Smart Targets?

A: A flat surface with each corner of the target unobscured (this includes shadows that may fall near or over the fiducial). The distance between target and camera is usually 1-3 yards, but you may find zooming in with the camera allows greater distances.

Q: Can I print out larger targets?

A: Yes. The electronic version of the targets are available HERE and can be used to print larger sized targets.

Q: What is the size/scale of the Smart Targets?

A: Portable Smart targets | Standard Smart targets

Q: Can I get X target in the app?

A: Send a request to our customer service team to request new target types.

Q: Are Smart Targets required to use Laser Academy?

A: No, but they make using the system a lot more easy and intuitive, with automatic target detection and automatic scoring. Laser Academy allows you to define manual hit zones in cases where Smart Targets are not used.

ACTIVATION CODE

Q: Where is my Laser Academy access code?

A: The code card is included in the Laser Academy kit. Be sure to look in the lid of the zippered case, under the foam, and in the retail box. Example full access card.

Q: My Laser Academy full access code doesn't work, what is wrong?

A: Please contact customer service to troubleshoot code activation issues.

Q: Where/how do I enter my full access code?

A: Go to Laser Academy > Settings > Sign in to the app with a username, and on the same Settings screen, select Manage Account. This will open a browser window where you can enter the code.

Q: Can the full Laser Academy features be used without signing in or using a username?

A: Yes. No sign is required. Download the app. Purchase full access from within the app. If you ever uninstall the app or switch phones, you will need to sign into the app store using the same app store account, re-download the app, then within Laser Academy go to SETTINGS and choose RESTORE IN-APP PURCHASES. If you choose not to use a username within the Laser Academy app, your data will not be backed up. If the app is uninstalled or the phone formatted or lost, all the data will be lost as well.

Q: Can I transfer my Laser Academy access (full access included in Laser Academy Kit, full access purchased in app, Individual drill access, etc.)?

A: No. Laser Academy access is not transferable.

Pink Rhino Laser Cartridge

Q: I can only shoot one time then I have to manually reset the trigger to shoot again, what is wrong?

A: This is normal. The laser cartridge has no way to reset your trigger. As such, you may need to manually cycle the slide to reset the trigger.

Q: How to adjust the point of impact on a Pink Rhino Laser Cartridge?

A: The laser position is fixed. There is no mechanism for adjusting the laser position.

Q: Can I get new O-rings or end caps?

A: Yes, we sell these via custom orders. Please contact our sales team.

Q: Why did I get a Pink Rhino laser cartridge with 3 O-rings instead of 2 O-rings?

A: Pink Rhino has two variants of the same laser cartridge models and when ordering a laser cartridge, you may receive either configuration.

Q: I want the 2 O-ring version, who do I talk to to get it?

A: Exchanges based on O-ring count are not offered at this time.

Q: How do I put the Pink Rhino laser cartridge in my gun?

A: Here is a video demonstrating how to install the laser cartridge.

Q: Can I use Pink Rhino laser cartridges with a DryFireMag?

A: No. DryFireMag disables the firing pin function and the firing pin function is required to activate the laser cartridge.

Q: Does X laser cartridge size work with my gun?

A: The correct size of Pink Rhino laser cartridge is determined by the chambering of the firearm. Check the barrel to determine which caliber is appropriate for your firearm.

Q: What batteries does my Pink Rhino laser cartridges use?

A: Three LR626 batteries are required.

Q: What is the max range?

A: This depends on the users eyes, the surface being shot, and the ambient light. The brighter the ambient light, the shorter the max distance the laser is visible at.

Q: Can Pink Rhino work in Pistol Caliber Carbines?

A: Yes.

Q: Why does this Pink Rhino laser cartridge not cycle my gun when I dry fire?

A: The laser cartridge is not designed to cycle the firearm. In most cases, the user must reset the trigger manually after each shot.

Q: How long does the Pink Rhino last?

A: This varies from one firearm to the next based on firing pin design, spring pressure, and how far the firing pin protrudes from the breech face. Most firearms will allow thousands of rounds before maintenance replacement of the end cap is required.

Q: How accurate are Pink Rhino laser cartridges?

A: A deviation of 0.25" per yard is the max acceptable.

Order Processing and Shipping

Q: Does Next Business Day shipping require a signature?

A: Yes. If you are not available when the delivery is attempted, the shipment will most likely be held. Contact the local distribution center for the shipping carrier to determine if other options may be available.

Q: Does Mantis offer a payment plan?

A: Yes, payment plans are available through PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay at checkout. Subject to each services terms and conditions. Additionally, most major credit card brands offer a pay over time option, please inquire with your credit card issuer.

Q: When will my order ship (i.e. order processing timeframe)?

A: Orders for in-stock products will usually ship Monday-Friday (except holidays or holidays observed). In most cases, domestic customer orders for in-stock products with free shipping are estimated to be processed within 2-5 business days. Orders with expedited shipping are estimated to be processed within 1-2 business days. These timeframe estimates are not a guarantee and can increase based on a number of factors. Please contact our customer service team for an estimate on our current order processing timeframes.

Q: When will my continental USA order arrive (i.e. order shipping timeframe)?

A: Most continental USA orders are delivered within five business days from the date of shipment from our warehouse. However, delivery times can vary due to factors beyond our control, such as weather conditions, shipping carrier delays, and routing issues. During peak periods, especially November to December, extended shipping timeframes are more common. For remote or less accessible regions, additional time may be required.

Q: When will my international order arrive (i.e. order shipping timeframe)?

A: Shipping time frames can significantly vary by country. Generally, orders may arrive anywhere between 1-4 weeks, but in some cases, especially for destinations with longer transit routes or more complex customs procedures, it may take 1-3 months. Factors influencing these variations include customs processing, transportation routes, local delivery standards, weather conditions, political stability, holiday seasons (in both the USA and the receiving country), and public health situations. If you are concerned about a delay, we recommend contacting your local Customs office to check if any action is required on your part for the delivery.

Q: Do you ship internationally?

A: Yes

Q: For international orders, are there taxes or fees?

A: Other than shipping charges, we do not assess taxes or fees for international orders. You can expect Customs to charge a tax/duty and possibly fees. It is the responsibility of the recipient to pay for any fees or assessments that Customs may require.

When the shipment reaches the Customs department for your country, they will contact you to collect any tax/duty/fee that is required. These fees and rates vary from country to country and can change at any time. We are unable to confirm what this cost may be. If this is a concern, we recommend contacting your Customs to determine what fees and rate may apply to your shipment. International orders that are rejected will not be re-shipped and are not eligible for refund.

Q: Is there a restocking fee for returned items?

A: For domestic orders, there are no restocking fees. However, international orders and those shipped domestically for freight forwarding are subject to a 20% restocking fee if the order is returned or rejected upon delivery.