Real World Self Protection Training for Individuals, Families, Organizations, and Businesses
Check Out What's New
At A+R Tactics, our trainings go beyond the conventional.
You control your training journey, selecting from an expansive list of topics and skill sets.
Providing you with comprehensive practical methods and hands-on experience across a diverse range of self-protection skills suitable for diverse real-world situations. Whether you're looking to bolster your tactical skills, enhance your home security, or prepare for potential threats, A+R Tactics is equipped to deliver comprehensive and effective training tailored to you.
Meet the Team
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Altonio Rivers
OWNER / DIRECTOR OF TACTICAL TRAINING
Altonio is a former United States Marine and veteran law enforcement officer with over 18 years of service at the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, where he held critical roles including SWAT team member and FBI Human Trafficking Taskforce detective. He is also an NRA and USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor, NRA Range Safety Officer, Simunitions and Force on Force Certified Instructor, Glock Armorer, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu blue belt, now leading A+R Tactics to provide essential training for law enforcement and civilians.
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Nicole Thurman
OWNER/ DIRECTOR OF THE WOMENS INSTITUTE
Nicole is a Registered Nurse (BSN, RN) and co-owner of A+R Tactics, with extensive expertise as a Firearms and Combatives Instructor, holding black and blue belts in Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, respectively. She is also an NRA and USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor, NRA Range Safety Officer, Simunitions and Force on Force Certified Instructor, Glock Armorer, and Red Cross Certified Instructor, leading the Women’s Training Institute and authoring Civilian Trauma Response Training for diverse audiences.
At A+R TACTICS, our mission is to leverage our extensive professional expertise to provide the ideal courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and unparalleled opportunities for reality-based training. Our aim is to empower individuals with vital lifesaving skills, ensuring not only their own safety but also the well-being of their loved ones.
Train with A+R Tactics and Get a FREE Alien Gear Holster
Your training comes with an upgrade.
Thanks to our partnership with Alien Gear Holsters, the first 50 bookings each month, whether it’s private training, a workshop, or a small group session, will receive a FREE Alien Gear Holster.
Alien Gear is known for their comfortable, secure, and performance-driven holsters, trusted by professionals and everyday carriers alike. Pair that with A+R Tactics training, and you’ll leave ready for whatever comes your way.
Don’t wait. Spots fill quickly each month. Book now, secure your training, and claim your holster.
YOUR SESSION, YOUR POV.
YOUR SESSION, YOUR POV.
GoPro Training Footage Add On
Relive your training session from a whole new perspective. Our GoPro cameras capture your experience in action, giving you an inside look at your performance and progress.
High-quality POV footage from your session
Delivered digitally
Perfect for reviewing tactics, sharing with friends, or keeping as a memory
Please note: Sessions are filmed for training purposes, but only participants who purchase this add-on will receive their personal footage
A+R Tactics × Strategic Dynamics
Shoot House Match
Open to all levels
From first-timers to seasoned shooters.
The Shoot House Match
April 19th, 2026
A+R Tactics Training Facility
588 Griffith Rd, Building 5
Charlotte, NC 28217
You. Your crew. Our house. Let’s see what you’ve got.
The A+R Tactics × Strategic Dynamics Shoot House Match Series returns, bringing you the only CQB-based, live-action force-on-force competition of its kind, designed and led by former SWAT, Green Berets, and Combat Arms veterans.
This 5-stage shoot house match challenges your movement, accuracy, and decision-making under real pressure, with over $2,500 in prizes from elite brands like Alien Gear Holsters, Mantis Tech, Streamlight, WARQ, and Weapon Works LLC on the line. Expect low-light stages, vehicle starts, and short bursts of stand-up grappling, all with provided Glock 17T pistols, gear, and marking ammo. Whether you’re running full kit or slick, this is your chance to prove your edge in real-world scenarios. Bring your crew. Earn your bragging rights. Win big. Read more here.
Our Key Objective:
Demonstrate how both firearms and martial arts are intrinsically linked. Common principles are taught and we strive to deliver simple, efficient, and highly effective techniques that will change the way you think about and approach self-defenese.
Upcoming Training with A+R Tactics
First 50 in to train each month receive a FREE Alien Gear Holsters holster!
April 4 - Women’s Monthly Self Protection & Shoot House Scenario Training
Empty Hand skills for Defense with Blade and TECC / Stop the Bleed application in scenarios under pressure
Don’t miss your chance to level up your skills and join the action!
Wondering where to start?
Schedule your FREE
Training Consultation today!
Our tactical training facility open to civilian, military, and law enforcement.
Take the unique opportunity to train one-on-one, with your partner, your friends, your team, or your co-workers.
The Tactical Report by A+R Tactics
Check out our expert safety tips, self-protection strategies, and insights into our latest training programs, group events, and tactical training. From women’s safety and travel security to team-building and real-world defense tactics, our blog equips you with the knowledge to stay aware, confident, and prepared.
Shop our Merch
Find our logo t-shirts, rashgaurds, duffle bags, and more.
Our Partners
Limited Edition EDC Pick
$260.00
Legacy Blades and A+R Tactics Exclusive, Limited Edition EDC Pick- perfect for discreet neck or waistband carry. Each purchase also includes a complimentary trainer, with sheaths included for both. These EDC Picks are crafted by the skilled Jared Grant, current U.S. Military with SOCOM and Army Special Ops experience and 7 tours under his belt. $50 OFF when purchasing two.
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Navy Cerakote with Navy Canvas Micarta Scales with Monsoon Topographical Print Sheath
Burnt Bronze Cerakote with Jade G10 Scales with Monsoon Topographical Print Sheath
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Length 2.75"
5/32 thickness 80crv2 steel
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Receive $50 OFF when you purchase two!
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Price $260.00 with FREE shipping! Local pick up available.
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Item descriptionThese picks are a custom order and each is handmade with a 4-6 week fabrication window.
See What People Are Saying
“The whole team at A+R is awesome. Very professional, patient with their students, and skilled at what they’re teaching. I felt like the little details of each skill was well relayed while taking the integrated defense class. Would highly recommend it for anyone who wants to get as close to real life scenarios and training as possible!”
The training was amazing, personally tailored to each student's wants / skill level and occupational requirements/needs.
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Went there last night for my bachelor party! The place is awesome, the staff excellent and knowledgeable thanks to their service!
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Got into a shootout with a SWAT member while fighting off a Krav black belt as I'm being coached by a Navy Seal. Bucket list ✅.
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Love the small class environment...it gives for more hands on time. Alot of knowledge from all the instructors.
The training was amazing, personally tailored to each student's wants / skill level and occupational requirements/needs. 〰️ Went there last night for my bachelor party! The place is awesome, the staff excellent and knowledgeable thanks to their service! 〰️ Got into a shootout with a SWAT member while fighting off a Krav black belt as I'm being coached by a Navy Seal. Bucket list ✅. 〰️ Love the small class environment...it gives for more hands on time. Alot of knowledge from all the instructors.
Frequently Asked Questions
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If you're just beginning your training journey, start by identifying your area of interest. Once you've pinpointed your focus, explore our range of courses and memberships tailored to that specific area. Find the perfect match for your goals and interests and enroll today to begin on an exciting path of learning and growth!
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Yes, we have training memberships tailored to exactly fit your needs and training goals!
You can choose from a monthly membership to the Women's Monthly Training; Women's Monthly Self Protection and Shoot House Scenario Training Membership (no contract, cancel any time, no charge when notify in advance won't be attending that month)
Or, any of our Pathways Memberships. They are expertly crafted to cater to everyone, from beginners to advanced learners.
Women's Solo Defense of Self and Home
Intro to Shooting and Beyond
CQB Primer
Family Safety and Home Defense
Path to Concealed Carry
Can't find a package that fits exactly what you're looking for? We're ready to tailor your 5 sessions to meet your specific goals and preferences, ensuring a personalized training experience.
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We offer many training options. Check our calendar for guest instructors, upcoming events, and more. And you can also find all of our training descriptions on our trainin page.
With many options at our facility, please check out our FAQs. And if you need further assistance, please give us a call at (833) 461-8626!








