THE TACTICAL REPORT
A+R Tactics Blog
The Tactical Report by A+R Tactics is your go-to source for expert safety tips, self-protection strategies, and in-depth insights into our latest training programs, gear recommendations, group events, and tactical instruction.
Covering everything from personal safety and travel security to team-building exercises and real-world defense tactics, our blog is designed to keep you informed, confident, and prepared for whatever comes your way.
Your Class. Your Vision. Our Facility.
Whether you’re an MMA coach, fitness instructor, or self-defense trainer, A+R Tactics offers the professional training environment you’ve been looking for. Our facility was built for serious coaches who want the freedom to teach their way.
KORE Essentials EDC Belt Tested Under Real Training Stress | A+R Tactics
We don’t test gear in theory—we test it in the fight. After six months of real-world use, A+R Tactics founder Altonio Rivers breaks down how the KORE Essentials EDC Belt performs when comfort meets combat readiness.
Why Your Shooting Stance Could Get You Killed
In a fight, your stance isn’t just about accuracy—it’s about survival. This A+R Tactics training session breaks down how overexposure could cost you and how to train for angles, steadiness, and confidence under pressure.
Train for What Really Matters: A+R Tactics Monthly Open Scenario Night
Our monthly Open Scenario Night isn’t just training, it’s transformation. Three hours of force-on-force drills, CQB movement, and decision-making under stress that sharpen your reactions and your confidence.
Built for Battle: Our Review of the Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster
The Alien Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster isn't just another piece of gear — it's a critical piece of our kit. Here’s why it’s our go-to for everyday use on the mat, in the house, and during high-pressure scenario training.
The Art of Starting Over: What USPSA Shooting Taught Kenny Florian
What do shooting competitions and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have in common? According to Kenny Florian—more than you might think. In this blog, Kenny shares how stepping into USPSA as a beginner again reignited his passion for learning and mastery, and how the same principles that guide martial arts also sharpen performance under pressure.
Not Your Average Gun Range: Real Rifle & Pistol Training in Charlotte’s Tactical Shoot House
Paintball is play. The Shoot House is preparation. At A+R Tactics, we go beyond the bench and paper targets to bring you tactical firearms training that tests your skills when it matters most. Here’s why our Shoot House Experience is unlike anything else near Charlotte.
BlackbeardX by Mantis: The Ultimate Dry Fire Laser Training System for AR-15s
We integrated the BlackbeardX into multiple training sessions—from women’s self-protection and weekly combatives to shoot house scenarios. Its smart feedback, laser precision, and real-world feel made it a standout tool for everyone, from first-timers to experienced shooters.
What to Do in Charlotte When You Travel In and Train with Us
Coming to Charlotte for a Travel In and Train at A+R Tactics? Here’s our insider list of team-approved local experiences—perfect for winding down after a full day of tactical training. From whitewater rafting and race cars to immersive science exhibits and scenic gardens, make the most of your trip.
SecureIt Agile Modular Gun Safes: The Scalable Storage Solution We Trust
From the FAST-LOCK™ system to military-approved CradleGrid™ design, SecureIt Agile Safes give us the access, adaptability, and security we trust daily. Here's why we recommend them.
How We Train Law Enforcement for Real-World Encounters at A+R Tactics
In a world where one wrong move can cost lives, real-world scenario training isn’t optional—it’s essential. See how A+R Tactics is giving law enforcement officers the tools, training, and confidence to make the right calls when it matters most.
Why We Stand by the Subsecond Operator 3.0 Belt
Not every product lives up to its promises. But when something holds strong through training, range days, and real-world application, we pay attention. The Subsecond Operator 3.0 Belt is one of those rare finds.
Unlocking the Power of Half Guard: A Principle-Based Approach to Jiu-Jitsu with Kenny Florian
So many battles on the mat are decided from half guard. Kenny Florian breaks down why—and how you can start turning this challenging position into one of your strongest weapons.
Empowered Educators: Real-World Safety Training That Builds Confidence and Readiness
Your educators deserve more than a lecture—they deserve real preparation. Our school safety trainings empower staff to respond calmly and effectively to threats through hands-on, scenario-based sessions tailored for school settings.
Where We Refuel: A+R Tactics' Favorite Post-Training Eats in Charlotte
When training wraps and the gear comes off, there’s one mission left, finding the best food in Charlotte, NC. Here's a roundup of A+R Tactics' favorite local restaurants that fuel us up, bring us together, and always deliver.
Prepared, Not Paranoid: Why Your Church Safety Team Needs Realistic Scenario Training
Churches should feel safe, and it’s our job to help keep them that way. At A+R Tactics, we offer immersive church safety training using real-world scenarios, non-lethal weapons, and expert instruction to help your team respond confidently when it matters most.
Traveled In, Trained Hard: Real Force-on-Force Scenarios with A+R Tactics
Two friends traveled in. What they got was more than training—it was transformation. At A+R Tactics, we tailor every session to your skills, goals, and reality. Watch them work through real-world scenarios and see why our force-on-force experience is worth the trip.
Locked In at Aimpoint’s Industry Day: Why Their Optics Are a Must for Your Kit
A+R Tactics spent the day locked in with Aimpoint at an exclusive Industry Day—and it did not disappoint. From pistol to carbine and shotgun platforms, we put Aimpoint’s latest optics to the test and walked away with serious respect for their performance and durability. Hosted at the elite Hyatt Farms Shooting Complex, this event delivered hands-on training, top-tier gear, and insights we’ll be bringing straight back to our training floor.
The Truths of Jiu Jitsu with Kenny Florian
Step onto the mats with UFC legend Kenny Florian and explore the principle-based truths of Jiu Jitsu. His No-Gi classes at A+R Tactics go beyond technique—focusing on timing, structure, and efficiency for long-term growth. Train smarter, not harder.
Webinar Training for Security Professionals: Introducing the Guardian Network Webinar
In a world where threats evolve rapidly and unpredictably, security professionals, first responders, and protectors of all kinds need more than just initial certifications—they need consistent, relevant, and realistic training.
That’s why we created the Guardian Network—an exclusive, online training community developed by A+R Tactics to support those who take their role in safety and protection seriously. This initiative is designed to offer continued education, direct access to professionals in the field, and a space where protectors can grow their skills and their network.