A method and apparatus for firearm training simulator which simulates realistic recoil of conventional firearms. The method and apparatus incorporates a linear motor and controllable mass for generating recoil. One embodiment includes an adjusting system for adjusting the amount of recoil provided. Also provided are means for simulating semiautomatic and/or full automatic operation of firearms. One embodiment can include a laser emitter which simulates the path for a bullet fired from a firearm that the method and apparatus is simulating.