Strike Arena

Choose your platform

The Right Dry Fire Platform for You

The right platform depends on two decisions: which firearm you'll use, and whether your budget allows for recoil. We'll walk you through both.

Work through the steps below to understand your options, then pick the combination that fits your setup and budget.

Trusted by instructors and facilities to guide shooters to the right setup.

Step 1: Understand the two platforms

Your own firearm or a dedicated training gun?

Both use a laser attachment or drop-in component (barrel, bolt, magazine, etc.). The difference is whether you use your existing firearm or a dedicated training gun.

1. Real firearm

Laser attachment or drop-in component with your existing setup (optic, holster, duty firearm, etc.)

Pros

  • Your existing duty setup (no variation from training)
  • Fulfills department requirements to train with your duty firearm

Cons

  • Liability and safety rules when using real firearms in training
  • Recoil systems for real firearms cost significantly more

2. Training gun

Laser attachment or drop-in component with a training gun platform (airsoft, non-recoil gun, etc.)

Pros

  • No liability from using real firearms in training
  • Recoil-enabled options is significantly cheaper

Cons

  • Not your exact duty gun (optic, holster, belt setup)
  • Recoil is less than live fire

Step 2: Budget

Your Budget Drives Recoil Options

Recoil matters—and the more realistic the recoil, the more expensive the solution. Both real firearms and training guns have recoil and non-recoil options. Your budget will dictate what we recommend.

Why Recoil Matters

Recoil teaches grip pressure, sight recovery, and shot timing. Too much recoil can create flinch. No recoil removes feedback entirely.

“The sweet spot is just enough recoil to force good fundamentals.”

Why Trigger Reset Matters

If a system forces you to rack the slide after every shot, you're training muscle memory you won't use in a real firefight.

“Automatic trigger reset isn't a luxury—it prevents bad training scars.”

Step 3: Compare options

Compare by feature

Select the option that best fits your platform and budget.

Step 4: Your recommendation

Select an option above to see handgun and rifle recommendations for your choice.

Found your platform? See packages or stay updated.

Get training tips, product updates, and promotions. Choose what you want to hear about.