Real World Self Protection Training for Individuals, Families, Organizations, and Businesses
Check Out What's New
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![Monthly CQB and Scenario Training Workshop]()
Monthly CQB and Scenario Training Workshop
June 6th
Ever wanted to learn CQB—whether for fun, personal defense, or to protect your business and home? This is your chance.This 3-hour immersive workshop is designed to help you prepare for real-world self protection and home defense situations through Close Quarters Battle (CQB) tactics and scenario training.
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![Two men wearing tactical gear practicing room-clearing techniques with replica firearms in an indoor training environment.]()
Shoot House Match III & Workshop
September 20th & 21st
You. Your crew. Our house. Let’s see what you’ve got.
The A+R Tactics × Strategic Dynamics Shoot House Match Series is back September 21st—and this isn’t your average competition. This is the only CQB-based, live-action force-on-force match of its kind, built and run by former SWAT, former and current Green Berets, and members of the Combat Arms Community. If you’re ready to test your tactical edge in real-world, shoot house conditions—this is where it happens.
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![Two men practicing martial arts techniques on a mat inside a gym. The man on the right is wearing a black outfit and appears to be demonstrating a move, while the other man, in shorts and a gray shirt, is crouched on the mat. A mural is visible in the background.]()
Kenny Florian No-Gi Classes
Tuesdays & Thursdays
$125 Monthly Membership or $50 Drop in Rate
This is your opportunity to train consistently with this former UFC Fighter, 5th Degree BJJ Black Belt, and one of the most respected martial artists in the world! Kenny’s No-Gi program will dive deep into practical concepts and techniques for No-Gi BJJ, self-protection, and MMA.
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![Mixed martial artist in a ring with another person, visibly sweaty and intense. UFC or combat sports setting, with promotional logos visible.]()
The Striking Club
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Charlotte's Premier Striking Gym - Offering Boxing/Kickboxing/Muay Thai. Join Southern Scrap Nation at A+R Tactics and take the first step toward becoming your best self! Whether you're sharpening your striking or mastering grappling, our expert-led classes will help you grow your skills and confidence. -
![Blue training pistol and rifle on a table with tactical gear, featuring 'Right to Bear' logo and instructor vest.]()
Right to Bear; Elite Self-Defense Coverage Association
At A+R Tactics, we believe that self-defense goes beyond just skill and training—it requires preparation, protection, and peace of mind. That’s why we’ve partnered with Right to Bear, an elite self-defense coverage association that offers firearm legal protection, expert support, and essential training resources.
At A+R Tactics, we train you to be prepared for real-world threats. Right to Bear ensures that you're legally protected afterward.
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.
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![Women's Self Defense A+R Tact]()
Self-Protection Training
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![Two people in tactical gear navigating a narrow corridor, holding firearms and wearing helmets, in a training or simulation environment.]()
Close Quarters Battle Trainings
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Home Defense Trainings
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![A group of people in tactical gear posing indoors against a wall with painted graphics. They wear tan vests and hold helmets, suggesting participation in a paintball or airsoft event. The background features a stylized mural with a logo.]()
Parties/ Corporate Events
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Training Packages
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Travel in & Train Package
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![Man in tactical gear aiming rifle indoors, wearing a red sleeve shirt, tactical vest, and a cap.]()
Shoot House
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![Three people wearing paintball protective gear, including helmets and face masks, standing against a black wall indoors.]()
Memberships
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Concealed Carry Prep/Firearms 101
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.
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Kenny Florian
PARTNER / DIRECTOR OF COMBATIVES
Kenny is a 4th degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a Muay Thai expert, and a former UFC fighter who competed in four weight classes, earning a reputation for his devastating elbow strikes and finishing ability. After his UFC career, he founded Florian Martial Arts Center, medaled in IBJJF tournaments, became an NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, and now serves as a lead analyst for the Professional Fighters League and co-host of "BattleBots" on the Discovery Channel.
Our Training Packages are expertly crafted to cater to everyone, from beginners to advanced participants. Choose from our range of packages below or create a personalized plan, embarking on a path to personal growth and mastery.
Training Packages:
5 Trainings - 2 hr each, in 1 Package
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Our specialized self-protection package is designed for female realtors, solo travelers, and independent women. Whether you're a single mother, a professional, or managing life solo, our training is tailored to meet your unique needs. Enhance your confidence and personal safety, embracing a stronger, more secure self. We ensure each session is customized to your individual needs, empowering you to be prepared and self-assured in any circumstance.
Training Path Sessions: $750
1. Unarmed Self Protection Training
2. Self Protection Training Session with Neck Knife
3. Dynamic Pistol or Intro to Pistol
4. Intro to CQB for Home Defense
5. Home Defense Scenario Training
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Dive into the world of CQB training, where individual skill development meets growth, strategy, and real-world scenarios. Engage in an exhilarating, action-packed journey that promises not just fun, but also a chance to develop a pivotal skill set, challenge yourself, and learn in a dynamic environment. Join us now!
Training Path Sessions: $750
1. Intro to Pistol CQB
2. Intro to Rifle CQB
3. Combo Pistol & Rifle CQB
4. Competitive CQB
5. CQB for Home Defense
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Perfect for Beginners and Enthusiasts Alike: Our firearms training program is tailored for everyone - whether you're just beginning or seeking a refresher course. Beyond skill development, we offer personalized guidance in choosing the ideal firearm that aligns with your specific needs, budget, and objectives. Begin your journey of skillful learning and informed decision-making with us.
Training Path Sessions: $750
1. Introduction to Firearms
2. Dynamic Pistol Training, including holster work, gear reviews & recommendations, cleaning, maintenance, & storage
3. Shoot / No Shoot Scenario Training
4. Live Fire Lesson at the Range
5. Handgun Fitting at the Range
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Boost Your Family's Safety and Peace of Mind with Our Specialized Training Program! Designed for couples or families of all ages, we offer TECC, emergency planning, and empty-handed self-protection for every family member, along with exclusive CQB training for the parents or a parent and older teen. Equip yourselves with critical skills for a range of scenarios, including medical and security emergencies.
Training Path Sessions: $1,400
1. Unarmed Self Protection Training
2. Unarmed Self Protection Training
3. TECC / Home & Emergency Plan Training
4. Private Home Defense Training for 2
5. Advanced Private Home Defense Training for 2
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Begin Your Concealed Carry Journey with Our In-Depth Training and Expertise! Our course guides you from initial training to pass your qualification skills test, emphasizing superior safety skills, enhanced decision-making under stress, and effective threat management strategies. Gain crucial knowledge and hands-on skills for responsible, proficient concealed carry. Join us to become confidently prepared for any scenario. Enroll now!
Training Path Sessions: $750
1. Intro to Firearms
2. Dynamic Pistol
3. NC or SC CCW Course
4. Advanced Dynamic Pistol Training, including holster work, gear rec., cleaning, maintenance, & storage
5. Advanced Concealed Carry Shoot / No Shoot Scenario Training
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Looking for Something More Personalized? If our standard packages don't perfectly match your needs, we're here to help. Let's customize your 5 sessions to align precisely with your training goals and preferences. Together, we'll craft a tailored program from our range of expert focuses, ensuring your training journey meets your specific aspirations and objectives. Collaborate with us to create your ideal learning experience! Call today!
A+R Tactics × Strategic Dynamics
Shoot House Match
Open to all levels
From first-timers to seasoned shooters.
The Shoot House Match
September 21st
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 September 21st—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.
Match Workshop
A+R Tactics Training Facility
588 Griffith Rd, Building 5
Charlotte, NC 28217
September 20th
Want a competitive edge before the match?
Join us the night before for our Shoot House Match Workshop. You’ll get to move, shoot, and get familiar with the layout—perfect for beginners or returning competitors looking to sharpen their skills.
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.
Monthly CQB and Scenario Training Workshop
When: First Friday of every month, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Next Class: June 6th
Cost: $175 – All-inclusive (gear + ammo provided)
Train for what really matters.
Ever wanted to learn CQB—whether for fun, personal defense, or to protect your business and home? This is your chance.
This 3-hour immersive workshop is designed to help you prepare for real-world self protection and home defense situations through Close Quarters Battle (CQB) tactics and scenario training. Whether you come solo, with a partner, or as a group of friends or coworkers, you’ll move through a rotating monthly curriculum that develops your skills step by step—from movement and tactics to accuracy, threat assessment, and use-of-force decision-making.
Defend Yourself with Confidence, Legal Protection You Can Trust
At A+R Tactics, we believe that self-defense goes beyond just skill and training—it requires preparation, protection, and peace of mind. That’s why we’ve partnered with Right to Bear, an elite self-defense coverage association that offers firearm legal protection, expert support, and essential training resources.
When it comes to self-defense, having the right coverage ensures that you’re protected legally and financially should you ever need to defend yourself or your loved ones.
Stay in the Loop with A+R Tactics
Check out our calendar for upcoming trainings, events, and more. Don’t miss your chance to level up your skills and join the action!
Buy 4 Trainings Get 1 Free
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Buy 4 Trainings Get 1 Free ⋆
Get More for Less! Buy 4 Trainings and Receive a 5th Session Absolutely FREE!
*Session passes are valid for a period of six months from date of purchase, and are exclusively for a single user and are non-transferable
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.
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.
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.
Our Partners
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![Premier Body Armor logo in black and white.]()
Premier Body Armor
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![Logo with a stylized bear face inside a shield and the text "Right to Bear" accompanied by "For the Responsible Gun Owner."]()
Right to Bear
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!["Point Blank Range" logo with crosshair design and red dot]()
Point Blank Range
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![Logo of Barber Training Solutions featuring a gold stylized bee on a black background.]()
Barber Training Solutions
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![Alien Gear Holsters logo with alien head and green eyes on black background.]()
Alien Gear Holsters
AR_TACTICSNOV24
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![Star Wars logo in black text on a white background]()
My Medic
20% OFF - ARTACTICS
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![Triumph Fight Academy logo featuring a palm tree, crescent moon, and crown, with an octagonal emblem on a black background.]()
Triumph Fight Academy
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![Black and white logo with stylized hawk design and the word 'Hayabusa' below it.]()
Hayabusa
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![Holosun logo featuring stylized text with a red dot.]()
Fol Sun
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![Rugged Suppressors logo with a stylized 'R' design and text.]()
Rugged Suppressors
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![Streamlight logo with stylized "SL" in a black and orange design.]()
Sream Light
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![Palmetto State Armory logo with crossed cannon barrels, text PSA Defense Premier Shooting Academy]()
Palmetto State Armory
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![North American Rescue logo with white hawk and cross on a black background.]()
North American Rescue
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![Logo with the text 'TrainingSights.com' on a gray, octagonal background with a stylized sight design.]()
Training Sights
10% OFF - artactics10
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![Sonesta Hotels and Resorts logo with stylized "S" icon and text.]()
Sonesta Hotels and Resorts
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![Logo of Staccato with a star and the numbers 20 and 11 in red.]()
Staccato
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![Talon Grips logo with stylized text on a white background.]()
Talon grip
10% OFF - ARTACTICS
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.
Shop our Merch
Find our logo t-shirts, rashgaurds, duffle bags, and more.
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!