Ever wish you could hone your shooting skills without stepping foot on the range? With ammunition prices constantly on the rise, dry fire training is the smart shooter’s secret weapon. Dry fire, the practice of using your firearm (unloaded, of course!) without live rounds, lets you build the fundamentals of marksmanship safely and conveniently in your own home.

The right dry fire training system can transform your practice sessions. Let’s take a look at the top picks for 2024 and find the best one to take your shooting to the next level.

Best dry fire training system

System #1: Mantis X10 Elite

Click here to get the Mantis X10

• Type: Sensor-based (attaches to your firearm)
• Best For: Trigger analysis, overall form refinement, experienced shooters seeking data-driven improvement.
  • Pros:Detailed shot tracking pinpoints specific improvements (anticipation, flinching, etc.)
  • App offers various training drills and challenges
  • Works for rifles and handguns
  • Cons:Higher price point
  • Requires some familiarity with the app for full value
• Price Range: $$$

System #2: Laser Ammo SureStrike

Click here to get the SureStrike Premium Plus Kit

• Type: Laser cartridge
• Best For: Pistol shooters, aiming practice, new gun owners prioritizing basics.
  • Pros:Affordable entry point into dry fire practice
  • Instant visual feedback on shot placement
  • Works with laser targets for interactive drills
  • Cons:No in-depth trigger control analysis
  • Primarily for handguns
• Price Range: $

Mantis Laser Academy – Standard Training Kit

System #3: SIRT Training Pistol

• Type: Dedicated training pistol (non-firing)
• Best For: Brand new shooters, learning safe firearm handling, recoil-sensitive individuals.
  • Pros:Simulates weight and feel of a real firearm
  • Promotes safe gun handling habits from the start
  • Resetting trigger for continuous practice
  • Cons:Doesn’t utilize your own firearm
  • Some shooters find it less “realistic” for draw practice
• Price Range: $$

System #4: CoolFire Trainer

• Type: CO2-powered recoil and reset simulation
• Best For: Shooters focused on realistic feeling practice, AR-platform practice.
  • Pros:Most realistic recoil sim compared to laser/sensor systems
  • Allows for magazine changes and malfunction drills
  • Can be used with your own upper for exact replication
  • Cons:Highest price point of most systems
  • Requires space and CO2 canisters
• Price Range: $$$$

System #5: DryFireMag

Click here to get the Dry Fire Training Magazine

• Type: Trigger reset for your own firearm
• Best For: Budget-minded shooters, shooters wanting realistic practice with their own gun.
  • Pros:Extremely affordable solution
  • Works with nearly any semi-auto pistol
  • Focuses purely on clean trigger reset
  • Cons:No shot analysis or target practice capability
  • Best as a supplement to other systems
• Price Range: $

LaserLyte LT-TTL Laser Trainer Pistol Full Size Glock 19

Conclusion

Dry fire training brings the range to your living room, and the right system accelerates your shooting progress while saving serious cash on ammo. Whether you’re a beginner building basics or an experienced shooter honing your edge, dry fire is the way to go. Remember, there’s no single “best” solution – what matters is finding the right tool to achieve your shooting goals!

When carrying a Taurus firearm, choosing the right holster is as crucial as selecting the gun. A proper holster not only ensures safety and comfort but also enhances the accessibility and protection of the firearm. Whether you own a compact Taurus G2c, a robust Raging Bull, or any other model, this post will help you find the perfect holster companion for your Taurus gun.

Understanding Holster Types

Click Here To Get a Taurus Gun Holster

OWB (Outside the Waistband)

• Pros: Offers easy access and comfort, especially for larger firearms like the Taurus Judge or Raging Bull.
• Cons: Less concealable, making it more suitable for open carry or outdoor activities.

IWB (Inside the Waistband)

• Pros: Excellent for concealed carry, especially for compact models like the Taurus G2c or G3c.
• Cons: May require looser clothing for comfort and concealment.

Shoulder Holsters

• Pros: Ideal for those who spend a lot of time sitting or driving, providing easy access.
• Cons: Concealment requires a jacket or overshirt, which may not be practical in all climates.

Ankle Holsters

• Pros: A good backup option for a secondary firearm.
• Cons: Accessibility is more challenging and suited for smaller models.

Key Features to Look for in a Holster

Material

• Leather: Offers durability and comfort, molding to the shape of the firearm and wearer over time.
• Kydex: Provides a sturdy and moisture-resistant option with a consistent draw but may wear the firearm’s finish over time.
• Nylon: Lightweight and affordable, though less durable than leather or Kydex.

Retention

• Look for holsters with adjustable retention settings to ensure your Taurus stays secure but is still quickly accessible when needed.

Comfort

• Consider the holster’s position and how it fits against your body, especially if you plan to wear it for extended periods.

Concealment

• For concealed carry models like the Taurus GX4 or G2c, ensure the holster offers a low profile without sacrificing accessibility.

Holster Recommendations for Popular Taurus Models

Taurus G2c/G3c

• An IWB holster made of Kydex offers a balance of concealment and readiness, suitable for everyday carry.

Taurus Judge/Raging Series

• OWB leather holsters distribute the weight evenly, making it easier to carry these larger revolvers. Shoulder holsters can also be a good choice for accessibility.

Taurus TX22

• A Kydex OWB holster provides ease of access and protection for range days or training sessions.

Maintenance Tips for Holster and Firearm Longevity

• Regularly clean and inspect your Taurus firearm and holster for wear and tear.
• Adjust retention screws as needed to ensure your gun remains securely in place.
• Condition leather holsters to prevent drying and cracking over time.

Conclusion

Selecting the right holster for your Taurus firearm enhances not just your carrying experience but also your readiness and safety. By considering the specific needs of your Taurus model; whether it’s for concealed carry, home defense, or outdoor activities, you can find a holster that provides the perfect balance of comfort, accessibility, and protection.

Keeping your gun safe at the right humidity level is super important for the longevity of your firearms, keeping rust at bay. Excessive moisture can also cause corrosion, and other damage to any other valuables stored within the safe. To help you out, I’ve put together a guide that dives into the different kinds of gun safe dehumidifiers. Whether you’ve got a big collection or just a few prized pieces, this guide will help you determine the best method and where to put a dehumidifier in a gun safe.

Best gun safe dehumidifiers

Electric Rod Dehumidifiers

Electric rod dehumidifiers, like the Goldenrod Dehumidifier, function by gently raising the temperature inside the gun safe. This increase in temperature drives out excess moisture, preventing humidity, mildew, and condensation issues. Typically, these dehumidifiers are mounted horizontally at the bottom of the safe and are particularly effective for large safes. One important aspect to consider is that these units can get quite warm during operation and require access to an electrical outlet.

MAXSafes GoldenRod Gun Safe Dehumidifier Rod

Desiccant Dehumidifiers

Desiccant dehumidifiers use materials like silica gel to absorb moisture. Examples include the Hornady Dehumidifier Canister and Liberty Safe Hydrosorbent Silica Gel. These often come with color indicators that signal when they need to be recharged, usually every 3 months or so (check the labeling for whichever one you get). Their small size allows for flexible placement within the safe, but usually placed near the door where humidity can seep in. They are ideal for smaller safes or as additional moisture control with another means.

Rechargeable Desiccant Pack

Renewable Dehumidifiers

A budget-friendly and efficient option is renewable dehumidifiers, that use silica beads to absorb moisture and are rechargeable, typically by plugging into an outlet to dry the beads. Their small size offers versatile placement options, making them suitable for smaller spaces or as an economical choice. These would usually be placed on the bottom of the safe, or hung if possible.

Renewable Dehumidifier Pack

PEET Dehumidifiers

PEET dehumidifiers work by utilizing natural convection to circulate warm, dry air within the safe. Notable for their energy efficiency, these dehumidifiers consume minimal electricity and operate silently. They are designed to fit into the corner, saving valuable space within the safe. The primary requirement is the availability of an electrical outlet.

PEET Gun Safe Dryer

What is the Best Gun Safe Dehumidifier

When selecting a gun safe dehumidifier, consider the size of your safe, the local climate, how often you access the safe, and whether you have an electrical outlet available. Each type of dehumidifier offers unique benefits and is suited for different scenarios. It’s important to match the dehumidifier type to your specific needs for effective moisture control.

Best Practices for Gun Safe Humidity Control

To maximize the effectiveness of your dehumidifier, regularly monitor the humidity levels inside your safe. One of the easiest ways to do this is to get a small hydrometer and place it inside the safe.

Indoor Thermometer Hygrometer

You can also combine different types of dehumidifiers to help their effectiveness, especially if you live in a very humid place like Florida. Regular maintenance on your firearms, such as cleaning and oiling will help protect them against rust, and gives you an opportunity to check on their condition.

Ideal humidity and temperature for gun safe

To ensure the proper condition and functionality of firearms, it’s recommended to keep the humidity level within the range of 30% to 50%, assuming the room’s temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This specific humidity range is crucial for preventing the development of rust and corrosion on the guns’ metal components and avoiding damage to any wooden parts of the firearms, which can occur in environments with humidity levels below 20%. Adhering to this guideline ensures the safe storage of firearms, safeguarding their quality and operational readiness.

Conclusion

Selecting the appropriate gun safe dehumidifier is dependent on how much humidity is in the gun safe. We recommend keeping a hydrometer in the gun safe to monitor humidity levels between 30-50% and around 60-70 degrees in ideal conditions. Then based on the data you see, pick the best option for your use case, monitor its effectiveness, and adjust as necessary to ensure your safe’s internal environment remains at ideal conditions. 

When it comes to ensuring the safety and accessibility of firearms at home, particularly in the bedroom, a bedside gun safe offers a practical solution. This important piece of home security equipment balances the need for quick access in one of the most vulnerable rooms in the home.

In this post, we will dive into the world of bedside gun safes, exploring their importance, features, and considerations you should make before choosing the perfect one for your home. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or new to firearm safety, understanding the nuances of a bedside gun safe is crucial for making an informed decision.

What is a Bedside Gun Safe?

A bedside gun safe is a secure storage device designed to keep handguns safely stored yet easily accessible from a bedside location. It’s intended for gun owners who want to have quick access to their firearms, particularly during the night or in emergencies, while ensuring that the gun is kept out of the reach of unauthorized users like children or intruders.

StopBox Pro

Key features of a bedside gun safe:

Quick Access: Bedside gun safes are usually equipped with fast-opening mechanisms. This could be a biometric scanner (like a fingerprint reader), an electronic keypad, or a quick-access lock.

The idea is to allow the owner to open the safe swiftly, in a matter of seconds, in case of an emergency. However, they also come with potential drawbacks that could interfere with accessibility. This is why some gun owners may prefer non-electronic gun safes, which offer more traditional access methods.

• Battery Dependency: Electronic and biometric safes rely on batteries. If the batteries die, the safe may become inaccessible, or the owner might be forced to use a slower backup method of access, like a key.
• Technical Failures: Electronic components can malfunction. Biometric scanners might fail to recognize a fingerprint due to dirt, injury to the finger, or poor scanning tech. Keypads can malfunction due to electrical issues or wear and tear.
• Environmental Factors: Electronic safes can be sensitive to environmental conditions like humidity, temperature fluctuations, and electromagnetic interference, affecting their reliability.
• Time Delays: Some electronic safes have a slight delay between entering the code or scanning a fingerprint and the safe opening. In an emergency when you need your firearm, a small delay can mean life and death.
• Complexity and Stress Response: In high-stress situations, adrenaline can impair fine motor skills and cognitive functions, making it harder to use these safes quickly and effectively. That’s why it’s important to practice retrieval and your gun use! 
  • A note on practice: Physical training in gun handling focuses on developing muscle memory. When you practice the same movements repeatedly, like drawing a firearm, aiming, and shooting, these actions become almost automatic. People who don’t train and practice are untested in high-stress situations, which can lead to freezing up (and possibly not knowing what to do) or fumbling when you need to be on the ball…

Non-electronic handgun safes, on the other hand, often use mechanical locks, such as simplex locks or key locks, which can be more reliable in certain situations:

• No Batteries Required: They don’t rely on batteries, so there’s no risk of power failure at a critical time.
• Less Sensitive to Environment: Mechanical safes are generally less sensitive to environmental factors and are more durable in various conditions.
• Consistent Performance: These safes provide consistent performance without the worry of technical failures or delays.
• Simplicity under Stress: Mechanical locks can be more straightforward to operate under stress, especially if the user has practiced and is familiar with the opening mechanism.
• Durability: Non-electronic safes often have fewer components that can break down or wear out over time, potentially offering a longer lifespan and more reliable performance.

Wrapping Up Bedside Gun Safes

Ensuring safety while maintaining quick access to a firearm at the bedside is a multifaceted task that requires careful consideration and responsibility from the gun owner. The essence of bedside gun safety lies in achieving a delicate balance. On the one hand, there’s the need to have immediate access to a firearm in emergencies; on the other, securing the weapon is imperative to prevent accidents or unauthorized use, especially by children or intruders. That is the last thing you want to worry about!

The journey of selecting the right bedside gun safe is nuanced. It involves weighing various factors, from the size and type of the locking mechanism to the choice between the sophistication of electronic locks and the reliability of mechanical ones. Each type of lock, whether biometric, electronic, or mechanical, brings its unique blend of convenience and security. The personal preferences of the gun owner, along with considerations about reliability and ease of access, particularly under stress, play a pivotal role in this decision.

However, the safe itself is just one piece of the puzzle. Effective gun ownership also hinges on education, regular training, and practice. This is about honing shooting skills and becoming adept at swiftly and safely accessing the gun from the safe under stressful conditions. Developing muscle memory through repeated practice ensures that retrieving and handling the firearm becomes instinctive, reducing the time it takes to assess a situation and allowing you to think clearly in a moment of chaos.

Key Features:

• Durability: Built to withstand tough conditions and rugged use.
• Lightweight: Minimal weight for maximum maneuverability.
• Easy Loading: Hassle-free and user-friendly design for swift reloading.
• Capacity Indication: Know your ammo count with a glance.

Benefits:

• Reliability: Count on the Magpul PMAG D-60 when it matters most.
• Manageability: Designed for ease of use, ensuring quick handling.
• Compatibility: Perfectly fits AR-15 and M4 weapons, enhancing your rifle’s potential.

Ranger Plate

Taurus pt740 Slim

When it comes to concealed weapons, the Taurus 740 SLIM stands out. With its streamlined design, this subcompact pistol is making waves in the firearm community, especially among those prioritizing reliable self-defense options.

Specifications at a Glance:

• Caliber: .40 S&W
• Capacity: 6+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 3.2 inches
• Overall Length: 6.24 inches
• Weight: 19 oz. (unloaded)
• Sights: Fixed front and rear
• Trigger: Double action only

Taurus 740 Distinctive Features:

The sleek and compact design of the Taurus 740 SLIM is optimal for discreet carrying, making it a favorite for many. Its features are not just about aesthetics but also about functionality and practicality.

Customizing the 740 SLIM:

The Taurus 740 SLIM isn’t just about looks. For those who prefer personalizing their weapons, a range of accessory options are available, from lasers and magazines to lights, enhancing both its utility and visual appeal.

Performance Overview:

In terms of performance, the Taurus 740 SLIM boasts commendable accuracy, a responsive trigger, and clear sights. However, potential users might want to note the somewhat ‘harsh’ recoil and certain reliability concerns.

A laser sight can help a lot with accuracy training

Wrapping Up:

While the Taurus 740 SLIM offers a compact .40 caliber solution tailor-made for self-defense, it’s crucial to assess its advantages and potential drawbacks. If you’re on the fence, considering other options like the Smith & Wesson Shield or the Walther PPS M2 might also be worthwhile.

Stats:

• Caliber: 9mm Luger
• Capacity: 17 + 1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
• Overall Length: 6.7 inches
• Weight: 24.7 oz (unloaded)
• Frame: Polymer with interchangeable backstraps
• Slide: Steel with Tennifer finish
• Sights: Fixed Novak 3-dot, windage-adjustable
• Trigger: DA/SA with external hammer and safety/decocker

Claw Compatible w/Posi-Click Retention & Adjustable Cant

IWB Taurus 85 Holster

Taurus 85 Grips