Need to check temperature? Use a thermometer. Need to measure human performance as it applied to police practice? Use VirTra.
VirTra’s value as a training tool is a given. Military and law enforcement agencies worldwide rely on our simulators for consistent, high-quality training. But in the past year, our team has been thrilled to see an exciting new use case:
Research!
Increasingly, scientists looking to measure use-of-force performance under stress turn to VirTra.
VirTra Certified as a Research Tool
Last year, Ohio University tested the V-100 Single Screen Simulator to determine if it could meet the demands of Department of Defense-funded research. The study tracked 30 adults, including those with police or military experience, over three shooting sessions. Researchers evaluated the participants on 21 different shooting metrics, using the simulator’s real-time analytics to capture the data.
The result? Ohio State University found that the simulator accurately captured all 21 variables with a high-reliability score. These findings confirmed that the system’s simulated ballistics met the requirements and exceeded expectations. Ohio State concluded that the simulator was well-suited to demanding research applications. Read the full study here.
The V-100’s newfound academic credentials made it a logical choice for further use of force research. Lon Bartel, Grand Canyon University Doctoral student, with the support of Force Science decided to use it to shed light on a longstanding question about police use of force:
How long does it take an person to stop shooting when presented with new information?
To explore this, the team created a scenario within the V-100 that displayed a target. When the target turned green, participants had to shoot as fast and accurately as possible but stop immediately when it turned red. The system then measured how many shots were fired after the stop signal, tracking reaction time delays.
This research led to some surprising findings. On average, the 109 participants fired an additional two rounds after the target turned red, with the first unintended shot occurring 0.16 seconds after the signal changed. In the most ideal of conditions, the majority of participants fired 2 or more rounds after the stop signal. Where previous research conducted in this area looked at police officer performance, this study used participants and Cumberland University. Illuminating that officers and civilians alike take time to stop shooting once started. Read the full study here.
Conclusion
The results of these studies reinforce VirTra’s reliability in high-stakes research. By providing accurate, real-time performance metrics, the V-100 has proven to be a critical tool for both training and scientific inquiry. As researchers continue to investigate decision-making, reaction times, and use-of-force dynamics, VirTra’s role in shaping the future of tactical training and law enforcement policy will only grow.
Although advanced, the V-100 is within reach of most police departments. Agencies of all sizes can leverage this trusted training tool using grants. Download the VirTra grant guide for easy-to-follow steps on how to apply for simulator grants.
The demand for law enforcement continues to grow, and agencies across the country are turning to innovative technologies to improve officer preparedness and public safety. One of the most impactful innovations reshaping the training landscape is virtual reality (VR) simulation training. This redefines how officers learn, practice, and respond in the real world.
The Shift Towards Virtual Reality in Training
Traditional training methods, while valuable, often fall short in replicating the stress, unpredictability, and variety of real-life encounters officers face daily. That’s where VR simulation steps in. Departments such as the Boston University Police Department and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office have already integrated VR programs into their training curriculum. These programs offer immersive, repeatable, and data-driven scenarios that allow officers to build confidence in a controlled environment.
According to the Wall Street Journal, many companies are now realizing the practical workplace applications of virtual reality, and law enforcement is no exception. With VR, departments can reduce risk, improve consistency, and better prepare officers without the logistical challenges of real-world exercises.
Benefits of VR-Based Law Enforcement Training
- Realistic Scenario Simulation: Officers experience lifelike situations that mirror what they may encounter on duty, from active shooter situations to high-stress traffic stops.
- Safety and Risk Reduction: Trainees can make critical decisions in real-time without physical danger, making it a safe way to learn from mistakes and refine tactics.
- Cost-Effective Long-Term: Although the initial investment may be higher, VR reduces recurring costs such as ammunition, travel, and facility use associated with traditional training.
- Mental Health and De-Escalation Training: Advanced VR systems now include scenarios that train officers on how to identify and respond to individuals experiencing autism, anxiety, schizophrenia, and other mental health challenges.
Case Studies and Real-World Applications
In a recent YouTube feature, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office demonstrated how they use VR to simulate high-pressure environments. Similarly, the Denver Police Department showcased their use of VR to train new recruits with an emphasis on real-world readiness and de-escalation tactics.
This growing adoption signals that VR is more than a trend – it’s becoming a standard for progressive law enforcement agencies nationwide.
VirTra’s Role in Shaping the Future of Police Training
At VirTra, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. Our VR-based platforms, including the V-XR® headset and the V-300® immersive simulator, provide agencies with the tools they need to build safer communities. Our training modules are developed in collaboration with subject matter experts and include everything from judgmental use-of-force scenarios to evidence-based mental health response training.
With over 250 agencies using our systems worldwide, we’re committed to ensuring that officers are not only prepared for the moment – but for the future of policing.
Conclusion
Virtual reality is revolutionizing how law enforcement officers train. It enables scalable, effective, and safe preparation for the increasingly complex situations they face. As more agencies adopt this technology, VR will continue to play a critical role in shaping responsible, confident, and community-focused policing.
If your department is ready to experience the next generation of law enforcement training, contact us to schedule a demo today.
There is no question that pistol red dot sights are here to stay. What started as a military technology can now be found on a growing number of officer weapons. Driven by performance advantages seen in competition shooting and declining costs, red dot adoption shows no sign of slowing down. So, what are the benefits of this option, and how does it impact your agency’s training?
For the uninitiated, red dot sights (RDS) are a type of electronic optic sight for firearms. They have long been used on rifles, carbines, and competition handguns and are steadily seeing adoption on duty handguns. They date back to the 1970s but have been widely available since 2006. There are many RDS models, but for law enforcement, it usually comes down to a few options due to authorized equipment lists.
Aimpoint ACRO P-2
• Pro: Good FOV
• Pro: Enclosed emitter
Holosun EPS
• Pro: Enclosed Emitter, less cleaning needed
Leupold Delta Point Pro (DPP)
• Pro: Motion Sensor Technology (MST™) extends battery life.
Sig Romeo Zero
• Pro: Inexpensive
Trijicon RMR
• Pro: Versatile MOA options
They all consist of a metal frame, emitter, and a reflective surface. Usually, they will differ in dot brightness/color, battery life, and durability. There are arguments as to the “best” option – every law enforcement agency will have to take its own needs into consideration when purchasing and issuing RDSs.
Why use an RDS? Most shooters agree they deliver faster target acquisition, but they have become especially significant for law enforcement due to the enhanced threat focus they offer. Since officers do not need to shift visual focus between the target, front and rear iron sights while using an RDS, they can pay closer attention to the subject. This potentially improves the safety of both the officer and the subject and increases situational awareness. RDSs have other benefits, as well as some drawbacks.
Another significant advantage of the RDS is accuracy. Sure, plenty of shooters will attest that they can outperform RDS users with their iron sights, but by and large, RDSs have been proven to reduce marksmanship qualification time and cost. In one study, iron-sighted shooters only made “critical hits” 28% of the time, while red-dot sighted shooters did so 70% of the time.
Officers with diminished eyesight (aging) also benefit from using red dot sights. Since a red dot overlays the reticle over the target, it reduces the burden of shifting focus from sights to subject and allows them to be more confident they’ll hit what they are aiming at. In total, these factors contribute to an overall improved response time, which translates to safer officers and safer communities.
RDS Drawbacks
“Well, if RDSs are so great, then why doesn’t everyone use them?”
Admittedly, red dots are not a cure-all. They’re still costly, even as prices have decreased over the past 5 years. It can be a hefty investment to order red dots for your entire team and ensure they fit in your holster. Be prepared to pay an even larger sum if your agency’s service weapons are not compatible with off-the-shelf red dot mounting options.
Additionally, red dots cannot make a poor shooter into an excellent one – only a firm grasp of proper shooting fundamentals can do that. Plus, they mainly require batteries to function, placing officers in a challenging situation if their optic is not powered.
A significant number of police departments have decided that RDS benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks, as the RDS market is expected to grow to $96.9M by 2032 (largely driven by LE adoption). For those who have come to the same conclusion, here is a quick start guide for installing and setting up your RDS.
Compatibility and Mounting
When transitioning to red dot sights, ensuring compatibility with your agency’s service weapons before purchase is paramount. Many of the most popular law enforcement firearms now offer models or modifications designed for RDS integration. Below are some key details regarding compatibility for commonly used handguns:
- Glock 17 and Glock 19: Red dot compatibility began with the introduction of the Glock MOS (Modular Optic System) platform in 2015.
- Sig Sauer P320: The P320 RX series, designed with RDS compatibility, launched in 2017, featuring a slide cut for direct optic mounting.
- Smith & Wesson M&P: The M&P M2.0 CORE (Competition Optics Ready Equipment) series debuted in 2016, providing built-in mounting options for various optics.
When mounting an RDS, ensure that the optic is securely affixed to the firearm. Use high-quality screws and mounting plates, preferably those recommended or provided by the manufacturer, to avoid loose fittings under recoil. Proper torque settings are critical, so investing in a torque wrench designed for firearm applications is advisable. Regular checks during maintenance can ensure your optic remains firmly mounted and operational.
Implementing Red Dot Training
Red dot sights offer significant advantages to law enforcement officers, from improved accuracy and threat focus to faster target acquisition. However, like any tool, their effectiveness depends on proper training and implementation. This is where VirTra’s simulators and V-VICTA (Virtual Interactive Coursework Training Academy) Red Dot Transition course shines.
As the only RDS training program POST-certified and developed in partnership with Victory First utilizing Aimpoint, VirTra provides officers with a structured way to transition to red dot technology and save time and money at the range. By integrating advanced simulation scenarios, agencies can ensure that officers not only master the mechanics of using an RDS but also gain situational awareness and decision-making skills.
Getting Started with Red Dot Sights: Drills
Now that your sight is mounted and secure, let’s start training. Below are two foundational drills from the VirTra RDOT program designed to help officers zero their RDS and build confidence with their new equipment. Begin by co-witnessing the red dot with iron sights, then proceed to the drills.
- Drill #1: Obtaining Zero
- Drill #2: Confirming Zero
Drills provide officers with a structured approach to learning and fine tuning the RDS within simulation. When combined with advanced training scenarios, skill drills and the accompanying certified V-VICTA curriculum, they can significantly enhance proficiency and confidence.
Whether your agency is considering red dot sights for the first time or looking to enhance its current training protocols, combining high-quality equipment with cutting-edge training like VirTra’s V-VICTA courses can lead to safer outcomes for both officers and the communities they serve.
For more information on safe simulation RDS training and to explore VirTra’s curriculum, click here.
CHANDLER, Ariz. — April 28, 2025 — VirTra, Inc. (Nasdaq: VTSI) (“VirTra” or the “Company”), a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement and military markets, will hold a conference call on Monday, May 12, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific time) to discuss its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. Financial results will be issued in a press release prior to the call.
VirTra management will host the presentation, followed by a question-and-answer period.
Date: Monday, May 12, 2025
Time: 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific time)
U.S. dial-in: 1-877-407-9208
International dial-in: 1-201-493-6784
Conference ID: 13753538
Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Gateway Group at 949-574-3860.
The conference call will be broadcast live and available for replay here and via the investor relations section of the Company’s website.
A replay of the call will be available after 7:30 p.m. Eastern time on the same day through May 26, 2025.
Toll-free replay number: 1-844-512-2921
International replay number: 1-412-317-6671
Replay ID: 13753538
About VirTra, Inc.
VirTra (Nasdaq: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators and firearms training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship, and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.
Investor Relations Contact:
Matt Glover and Alec Wilson
Gateway Group, Inc.
949-574-3860
The standard block-and-silo training in police academies, focusing on isolated skill drills, is failing to adequately prepare officers for the complex realities of law enforcement. This method, contrasting with the natural, holistic way we learn from childhood, like picking up sports by watching and emulating before honing individual skills. Then, mimicking what we saw with variation leads to proposing a constraint-led approach in police training.
This innovative approach, informed by motor and developmental learning theories, advocates for a comprehensive understanding of tasks before dissecting them into smaller parts. It’s about seeing the big picture first, then zooming in on the details, which aligns with how we best integrate and apply skills in real-life, unpredictable situations.
A constraint-led approach is rooted in the ecological dynamics theory. It suggests that effective learning happens by navigating through varying constraints, guiding learners to discover practical solutions within real task contexts. This methodology encourages adaptability and a deeper grasp of situational dynamics, proving essential for police training, where officers face unpredictable environments.
Applying the Approach
One practical step in applying this approach is analyzing body camera footage, which allows officers to witness entire use-of-force events. This not only aids in understanding the complexities of real-life encounters but also enhances decision-making skills by contextualizing the theoretical knowledge gained, such as when we learned to play sports by first watching them and then participating without fully grasping the individual abilities.
Additionally, simulation-based training plays a crucial role. It offers a realistic yet controlled setting for officers to practice and refine their tactical and decision-making skills, closely mimicking the pressures and complexities of fieldwork. This blend of theoretical and experiential learning fosters a more adaptable and comprehensive skill set.
Moving towards a constraint-led approach in police training means integrating technical skill development with holistic understanding and adaptive decision-making. This shift promises to equip officers better for the multifaceted nature of their duties, bridging the gap between traditional training methods and the demands of modern law enforcement, ultimately leading to enhanced public safety.
A North Carolina Correctional Facility’s Innovative Use of Simulator Training
Correctional officers face some of the most challenging environments in law enforcement, requiring constant vigilance, effective communication skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Yet, too often, training technology vendors focus on police markets, leaving the more narrow niche of prisons and corrections without tailored solutions. This is unfortunate, as corrections officers require an equal—if not higher—level of preparedness compared to street patrol officers.
While all men and women in uniform potentially face dangerous situations, correctional staff regularly encounter some of the most intense conditions. Inmates significantly outnumber staff, who often do not have access to lethal force as a last resort. Removing prisoners from their cells, for example, consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous tasks in all of law enforcement. This reality is all too familiar to Charles Carter, a North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NCDAC) training manager, whose division oversees the training of over 1800 cadets yearly for Institutions and Probation/Parole.
“What separates our staff from typical law enforcement is that prison staff come into contact with individuals who have broken the law to a degree that resulted in incarceration,” said Charles. “And when you’ve taken away someone’s freedom, you never know how that individual is going to react. Correctional officers have to be constantly vigilant because they are around people known to be violent.”
While NCDAC requires 32 hours of firearms training and six weeks of basic Correctional Officer training, 52 hours of firearms and eight weeks of basic Probation Officer training, NCDAC Secretary Todd Ishee and leadership saw a need to increase how recruits practice de-escalation and communication skills since correctional officers frequently need to defuse conflict without using force. Carter explained how NCDAC could improve staff safety with training that goes beyond use-of-force tactics.
“Our goal is to train officers to avoid using force whenever possible,” said Charles, “because when force is used, especially in an Institution setting, it often means getting physically close to the individual, which increases the risk of injury to both parties. While some situations may require immediate action, we aim to train our officers to use communication first, avoiding non-lethal and deadly force whenever possible. That’s the best outcome for everyone, including the offender.”
Fortunately for Charles, VirTra recently expanded its curriculum to include even more corrections-specific content. When NCDAC acquired the V-300 immersive simulators in 2024, instructors immediately began learning the system and software to better prepare cadets and staff.
“VirTra will enable us to teach cadets practical communication skills to de-escalate situations, when possible,” said Charles. “The big picture is that we need our staff to be comfortable using verbal skills and non-lethal tools, while also being prepared to use lethal force if necessary. Our simulators will allow us to teach that balance.”
Looking ahead, he enlisted his team for training in VirTra’s V-Author program—a suite that allows users to build custom scenarios tailored to their agency’s needs and even uses panoramic photos of his actual correctional centers.
“We’re excited about our V-Author course in December,” said Charles. “Using our own scenarios and scenes from our facilities, we’ll be able to take these recruits’ communication skills to the next level and ultimately help them become much more prepared for the job.” “We couldn’t be more thankful to Secretary Ishee, his leadership team, and to VirTra for providing us with such a valuable training tool.”
Military leaders looking to adopt virtual training devices must ask several critical questions when deciding on a technology solution for their forces. Can their live training be conducted realistically and accurately within this immersive virtual environment? Is there a high training throughput? Does it ease the instructor load?
Extended reality (XR) entered the military training space in various roles and applications. It has long been used for flight and drone operation and, more recently, for negotiation, combat, medical, and more. It is a highly flexible style of training that, by definition, combines the benefits of augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality into one package.
XR sets itself apart from other virtual technologies by allowing trainees to interact with virtual objects placed in the real world. Passthrough and augmented reality have further developed to reduce motion sickness and lack of immersion caused by an overly artificial CGI environment.
XR Applications in Military Training
HTC VIVE surveyed 400 military personnel to assess attitudes towards XR training. Respondents were a mix of XR users and non-XR users, and responses indicated that the armed forces were eager to adopt or continue to use the technology.
- 67% said XR training helps them prepare for stressful situations.
- 80% said XR enhances their education plans.
- 75% of the respondents who do not use XR plan to do so by 2028.
These recent statistics gathered in mid-2023 show a promising outlook for the future of XR. Simulated training in all forms has been popular for years, but the unique benefits from XR are noted for immersive combat training, technical training, and exercises (VIVE Business, 2023).
V-XR®- VirTra’s XR Solution
VirTra offered a glimpse of its newest technology at I/ITSEC 2024. The V-XR® is our most portable simulation tool, and its self-driven properties help reduce instructor exertion. Its unique use of volumetrically captured characters allows for a more realistic experience than traditional CGI.
Schedule a demonstration of this new system by speaking with a specialist here.
In the realm of law enforcement and military simulation training, realism is paramount. This is why VirTra offers advanced recoil kits that transform standard service weapons into simulation-ready tools, providing high physical fidelity training experiences.
Recoil kits easily fit into a user’s duty weapon with no permanent modification required. You don’t have to be an engineer to do it – they can be installed in minutes with minimal tools. Once installed, all normal accessories like sights and holsters can still be utilized.
VirTra’s recoil kits are manufactured and designed at VirTra’s headquarters in Arizona – meaning they are entirely made in the USA.
Wide Range of Compatible Firearms
VirTra’s recoil kits accommodate a broad range of firearms. Compatible models include:
- Pistols: Beretta M9, Glock 17, 19, 22, Sig Sauer P226, Heckler & Koch P2000, Smith & Wesson MP, Walther P99.
- Rifles: M16, AK-47, Heckler & Koch G36, MP5, UMP, CZ805 Bren, TAVOR X95, SIG MCX, among others.
This extensive compatibility ensures officers can train with their own duty weapon, eliminating training scars caused by unrealistic tools.
Used with CO2 Magazines
For the recoil kits to provide their realistic recoil response, CO2-operated magazines are required. These magazines can simulate end-of-magazine events as well as instructor-initiated malfunctions that the trainee must work through. They are weighted to provide the same feel as a real magazine.
The proprietary refill station allows for quick and easy CO2 refills, minimizing downtime between training sessions. This system is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly, reducing the need for disposable CO2 cartridges. Other options such as “green gas” can be flammable and dangerous, but VirTra uses food grade CO2 commonly used in soda machines around the world.
Safety
The weapon kits and CO2 delivery system provide a safety buffer as well. The kits preclude the loading of a live round into the weapon. This safety measure is key to keeping training environments as safe as possible, while still conducting highly representative training.
True-Fire Technology
A significant advancement in VirTra’s recoil kits is the incorporation of True-Fire technology. In January 2024, VirTra announced the release of its improved drop-in recoil kits that minimize false firing incidents. This feature ensures that shots are only registered when the trigger is intentionally pulled, reducing instances that can skew training evaluations. By preventing unintentional shot registration during actions like sliding, tapping, or dropping the weapon, True-Fire enhances the authenticity of training sessions.
Durability
To withstand the rigors of frequent training, VirTra’s recoil kits are fortified with ArmorGen™, a protective coating that minimizes wear and extends the lifespan of the equipment. This coating bonds at an atomic level, ensuring consistent performance and reliability throughout extensive training cycles.
To learn more about VirTra’s training options, contact a specialist.
At VirTra, we believe nothing should stand in the way of a future with safer communities. That’s why we launched Taskforce Santa – a giveaway contest to provide police agencies in need of improved training with state-of-the-art simulator tools. In 2023, we gifted a V-100 training simulator to Atoka PD – a small police department based outside of Memphis, Tennessee. Our team caught up with Atoka’s training coordinator Corporal Chris Covarrubias to learn more about the impact of the VirTra training simulator on his police force and community.
When Atoka PD applied for the Taskforce Santa, it needed a new tool to confidently train officers, collaborate with other departments, and positively engage with their community. VirTra’s V-100 ensures Atoka PD is well on its way to reaching these goals.
The agency is a relatively small team, with 5 active officers on 3 shifts. The community they serve experiences relatively low levels of violent crime, but with crime rates rising in nearby communities, Chris’s says his mission is to stay vigilant and improve their force’s preparedness.
While there are 40 years of experience between me and my two sergeants, our patrol officers have only about 5 each. We all run scenarios in the simulator but those patrol officers see the most benefit. It’s a really good way to get them the exposure they need.
We’re benefiting from the training because we’re not losing bodies due to lack of exposure. We had an officer leave because they didn’t feel like they didn’t have enough experience and come back because of the new training.
The next step for Atoka PD? Chris says they plan on expanding their use of the V-100 to assist them with connecting with their community. By publicly demonstrating training methods within simulator scenarios, Atoka PD hopes to improve trust with community stakeholders and offer better transparency for their agency.
Additionally, the team will lean heavily on the simulator’s de-escalation and mental health crisis scenarios for their CIT trainings. With a youth mental health crisis in full force nationwide, Atoka PD’s focus will be on preparing officers with the necessary skills to provide better outcomes among its community’s youth. Learn more about VirTra’s mental health scenario training here.
VirTra offers a range of law enforcement training simulators tailored to meet the diverse needs of police departments. Each type of simulator provides realistic training environments, allowing officers to enhance both their decision-making and marksmanship skills.
The comparison chart can help agencies choose the right simulator based on key features such as the number of screens, scenario libraries, and the inclusion of V-VICTA® coursework, which is certified by IADLEST. The simulators range from the portable V-100® to the advanced V-300®, with varied options for sound effects, marksmanship courses, and add-ons like recoil kits and less-lethal training.
All screened simulators are eligible for the STEP program. STEP offers law enforcement agencies a cost-effective solution through a monthly subscription. The program includes regular maintenance, service, updates, and new scenarios to ensure the technology remains current. Additionally, VirTra offers a risk-free, 12-month trial—if the agency isn’t satisfied, the simulator will be picked up with no questions asked.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end system, VirTra’s training solutions support comprehensive officer development, improving both skills and knowledge in realistic, interactive settings. For more detailed information, agencies can consult with a specialist to determine the best fit for their training needs.