iTarget vs Mantis: An In-Depth Comparison of Two Top Training Systems
You’ve decided that it’s time to take your training to the next level. You don’t want to keep making holes to the low left of your target. So you’re getting into dry practice (aka dry fire practice). Without feedback on your dry fire training, it can be incredibly boring and it’s hard to know if you’re improving or just building up training scars from bad habits. There are a lot of dry fire training systems out there, but here we’d like to focus on two of the most well known on the market -- Mantis X and iTarget -- compare and contrast the systems, and finally, look at them together.
All About iTarget Pro
iTarget Pro represents the abundant selection of laser-based training systems on offer. These kits are normally made up of a laser cartridge and target(s), all built around a mobile app. Laser rounds are activated by your hammer/striker when pulling the trigger of your pistol, marking the landing point of your shots. The cartridges provide hundreds of shots before requiring new batteries, making them cost-efficient as compared to live fire training, while also allowing you to train from the comfort of home. The iTarget Pro app comes with an open training mode that scores your hits, and, for an additional cost, you can also purchase a "Quickdraw" mode that tabulates the speed and accuracy of shots from a holster draw.
If a laser-based dry fire training system sounds interesting to you, then we’ve created a side-by-side comparison of our own, called Laser Academy, along with iTarget, G-Sight, LaserHIT, and Strikeman, showing what to expect of each system.
The Mantis X line of training systems are made up of a precision sensor that mounts to your firearm providing real-time feedback to you via the mobile app. Depending on your choice of model, they work for pistols, rifles, shotguns, and even archery (or all of the above). The in-depth, shot-by-shot feedback provided can help you improve while at the range, and the dry fire functionality means you can practice anytime, while also saving on ammo costs.
MantisX Training Aids
The Mantis system monitors your lead up to the shot, through your trigger press, and just after to give you a full picture of your mechanics and where you may need to adjust. Every shot is graded and feedback provided to diagnose and coach you. The insight provided is far deeper than a “correction chart”, as you receive a complete picture of each trigger pull. The ability to iron out these hitches from the comfort of home is what Mantis’ X line of products is all about.
Comparing the Two
If you still can't decide between a Mantis X or iTarget system, then here's some welcome news: you don't necessarily have to choose, as the two can work in concert. Because the Mantis X sensor does not use a laser, it can be simultaneously used with a a laser bullet, meaning it'll work seamlessly with the laser-based system of your choice, whether that be ITarget, G-Sight, LaserHIT, et cetera. As the Mantis X mounts on the rail of your firearm, it's tucked out of the way, working independently, registering your movements as you press the trigger. Using powerful gyroscopes and accelerometers, it analyzes everything before, during, and after the shot. If you're flinching, slapping the trigger, or anticipating recoil, the Mantis X can feel your movement and will give you instant feedback through the free app. Meanwhile, whichever dry fire target system you choose gives you something to focus your sights on while you work on your mechanics.
Key Training System Decision Factors
When thinking about which firearms training system would be best for you, ask yourself these questions:
- Dry Practice - Does this aid/improve the overall dry fire practice experience?
- Live Fire Training - Can you use this aid with real ammunition and recoil?
- With Your Own Gun - Can you use this aid to train with your own grips, sights, and trigger?
- Real-time Feedback - Does this aid give you actual analysis of your shooting or does it require you to self-analyze?
- Tracks Progress over Time - Can you use this aid to see how well you are improving, and what you need to work on still?
- Easy to Set Up - Is the aid portable and convenient to set up/put away?
- Built in Shot Timer - Does this aid let you train with a built in shot timer?
- Works in Any Lighting - Do you have to worry about the lighting with this training aid?
- Works at any Distance - Does this training aid have any special targets for you to worry about or only work at a specified distance?
- Promotes Front Sight Focus – Can I focus on my front sight or do I have to watch my target to get feedback?
- Muzzle Trace Before and After Shot – Does this aid show me a trace of how exactly I flinched the gun?
- Training from the Holster - Can you train on drawing from the holster with this aid?
- Works with CO2 Pistols - Can you use this training aid with simulated recoil and airsoft equipment?
- Built-in Coaching Tips – Does this training aid give recommendations on how I can improve my precision?
