FIRST TIME AT A+R TACTICS?
HERE’S WHAT TO EXPECT
Whether you're brand new or seasoned, you’re in the right place. Our training days are designed for all experience levels—no prior firearms knowledge required.
ARRIVE A FEW MINUTES EARLY
If you're registering a friend or part of a surprise party, show up early for check-in and digital waiver completion.
DO I NEED TO ALREADY KNOW HOW TO SHOOT A FIREARM?
Not at all.
We work with total beginners and advanced shooters alike. You’ll receive guidance at your pace.
We train with non-lethal marking rounds on site and can help you get fitted and trained on live firearms at our partner ranges:
Point Blank Range – Matthews
Point Blank Range – Mooresville
WHAT GEAR DO I NEED TO BRING?
For shoot house training, just bring:
Tactical or mechanics gloves (fitted)
Long, thick clothing (loose layers recommended)
For self-defense training, workout clothes are great but not required. Dress for movement!
WE PROVIDE ALL THE REST:
You’ll be fully outfitted with:
Force on Force™ Helmet
Neck & Groin Protectors
CONDOR Plate Carrier Vest (w/ mag holders)
Glock 17 Training Pistol & Holster
AR-15 Rifle (if rifle training)
Force on Force™ Blue BCG (for using your own rifle)
Marking Round Ammunition
⚠️ Marking rounds come with a pain penalty—just enough to learn from it. Loose layers help reduce impact!
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Good! We love tailoring training to you or your group’s goals. Ask away.
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.
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.
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!