Whether you're new to shooting or just new to training at home, setting up your first dry fire practice area can feel overwhelming. Do you need a bunch of gear? Special lighting? Complicated sensors?
Not at all.
At Strikeman, we believe effective dry fire training should be simple, safe, and accessible for everyone. So here’s the no-BS guide to getting started — with exactly what you need (and what you don’t).
THE MUST-HAVES
1. Your Firearm
You’ll be using your existing pistol or rifle — no modifications necessary. Just make sure it’s unloaded and cleared. Dry fire means zero live ammo in the room. Safety first, always. If you don’t have your own firearm yet, you can check out our laser training pistol, made in the USA in collaboration with SIRT. If you decide to use the training pistol, you won’t need a laser cartridge as it has the laser built-in.
2. A Laser Cartridge
This is what turns your trigger press into visible, trackable feedback. Strikeman’s laser cartridges are caliber-specific and drop right into your barrel, replacing the need for live ammo.
3. Your Phone or Tablet
Download the Strikeman app (iOS or Android) and use your device’s camera to track hits on your target. The app scores your shots and shows you groupings in real time.
4. A Target & Safe Backdrop
Use the included Strikeman target or print one of your own if you have a Pro membership. Make sure the backdrop is clear and safe — think drywall or a bookshelf, not a window.
NICE-TO-HAVES (OPTIONAL, BUT HELPFUL)
- Strikeman Expansion Packs: Game-style targets like Tic-Tac-Toe or Playing Cards keep training fresh and fun
- Strikeman Pro Subscription: Unlocks detailed analytics and cool features like Open Target
WHAT YOU DON’T NEED
- Wi-Fi
- Expensive optics, sensors, or smart targets
- Ammo
Dry fire training isn’t about simulating a range — it’s about building habits and precision in your own environment.
💡 FINAL THOUGHTS
Your first dry fire setup doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be safe, consistent, and motivating. With Strikeman, we’ve removed the guesswork so you can focus on what matters: becoming a better, more confident shooter — from your living room.
Want help picking your first cartridge or bundle? Click here to see our Starter Kits.