GAIM | A Virtual Reality Firearm Trainer

Being proficient with firearms takes time, range space, and money for ammo. Dry fire practice is an excellent tool for mastering the basics and gaining proficiency. However, additional tools can help supplement dry firing to achieve the next level in proficiency. Virtual reality (VR) is one such tool. GAIM is a specialized VR tool developed by Aimpoint for use in at-home shooting simulators. When the team from Gaim Immersive Technology Group offered to send us their pistol trainer, I was curious to see how I could incorporate it into my dry fire training plan.

“Immerse yourself in scenarios that replicate real-world environments, whether you’re a passionate hunter, dedicated sport shooter, or a professional in law enforcement or the military. Each simulator comes equipped with a weapon controller and scenarios that will help sharpen your aim.” ~ gaim.com

GAIM Overview

GAIM is built for use with Meta’s Quest VR headset and the right-hand controller. GAIM offers several different styles of training guns, ranging from a wooden rifle stock platform to a pistol platform. In my case, I received the pistol trainer. The pistol is designed as an inert version of the Arex Delta II. It comes with four backstraps and a fire control unit (FCU) that pairs with the Quest. Setting up and pairing the FCU to the Quest system is straightforward. However, one important note is that when pairing the FCU, press the light button.

The GAIM app is streamlined and has content specific to the trainer you have. In the app, there are three handguns to choose from: an Arex Delta II, a Walther handgun, and a Glock handgun. Along with the models, there is some ability to customize the Arex and Walther to have an Aimpoint ACRO or iron sights. The Glock only uses the ACRO. Users can also adjust the ACRO to change the point of aim. The app also provides different scenarios with different ranges and an IPSC course that can be played with other players. Users can also create their own range setups with barricades and various targets. This feature has helped me come up with different scenarios to practice shooting near and far targets while requiring me to manipulate my “firearm” around a virtual barricade.

“When combining our training firearms with the virtual reality experience of the Meta Quest you can practice challenging situations over and over.” ~ gaim.com

GAIM Uses

Over the past several months, I have been working on building a dry fire routine. Besides using my carry weapon, I have been implementing the GAIM system to help with practicing target transitions at varying distances. GAIM also has different preset courses of fire that help diversify my practice. Besides the preset courses, I have been finding it helpful to create and use custom ranges to mimic drills that I can do on the range. This practice gives me a rough idea of what to do during drills.

Besides the custom courses, the GAIM program also has an IPSC course for stationary training. Like designing courses to practice drills, the IPSC course helps you get an idea of how to walk through a competition. Users can also either do a “competition” solo or switch with another person in a “hotseat” style of competition.

GAIM Training Handgun Features & Specifications:

• What’s in the box
  • GAIM Training Handgun
  • Quest 2 Holder
  • Trigger (if chosen)
• Dimensions
  • Length: 7.28 in (185 mm)
  • Width: 1.06 in (27 mm)
  • Height: 5.47 in (139 mm)
• Weight
  • Handgun: 0.58 lbs (264 gram)
  • Handgun + Holder + Trigger: 0.79 lbs (358 gram)
• Design & durability

  • Handgun is an Arex Delta II, made by AREX.
• VR Headset requirement

  • Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3 & Meta Pro
• MSRP: $330

Final Thoughts

Using the handgun trainer reminds me of a simplified version of the Army’s Engagement Skills Trainer (EST), which utilizes a video and a weapons trainer to provide feedback on shooting skills. I view the system as a tool to help supplement my dry fire sessions and training at the range, along with analyzing my performance. One feature I would have liked is the ability to create courses without wearing the Quest headset. However, I do like that GAIM has the option to use a pistol with iron sights or a red dot sight. Especially in my case, where I don’t have a red dot yet, it helps get an idea of how to acquire the red dot. If you are interested in supplementing your firearms training, consider GAIM to see if it is a helpful tool for you.