What is PPSB?
The purpose of the Private Protective Services Board (PPSB) is to administer the licensing, education and training requirements of individuals, firms, and corporations in private protective services within North Carolina.
A PPSB certification is a requirement for individuals in private protective services, security officers, armored car officers, and more.
Which Certifications are offered?
Blackstone’s Training Department is an official training site for the following certifications:
- Armed Initial Certification
- Armed Recertification
- Unarmed Certification
- Armored Car Certification
- ASP Baton Certification
- OC Pepper Spray Certification
- Handcuffing Certification
- Rifle Certification
PPSB Certifications at Blackstone
The training department at Blackstone Shooting Sports is comprised of exponentially professional and experienced Instructors. Our State Certified PPSP Instructors are guaranteed to provide accurate and in-depth information in an applicable and engaging manner.
Blackstone Shooting Sports is the nicest and largest range and training facility in the Carolinas. Our 27 lane climate-controlled range is completed updated and located in the same building as our 2 spacious classrooms. Located right outside of Uptown Charlotte, Blackstone has all you need and more.
For more information or to enroll, contact our Instruction & Curriculum manager, Shane Caughey at 704.675.2334 or [email protected]

Shane Caughey
In 1992, Shane began his career with the Gastonia Police Department, serving as a member of the SWAT team. Currently, Shane is the Lead Firearms Instructor for the Basic Law Enforcement Training Academy at Gaston College in addition to his work here at Blackstone Shooting Sports. He loves to work with people at a variety of levels on any skill!

PATRICE
Patrice, born and raised in California, moved to North Carolina in 2018 with her wife and son. Patrice is a certified North Carolina security trainer and was awarded Pistol Expert during her 8 years in private armed security. She is a firearms enthusiast, but even more so has a passion for instructing new shooters.
Book a Lesson with Patrice

CALVIN
Calvin is a retired police Captain and currently is a full-time college instructor. He is a certified Firearms Instructor and Concealed Carry Handgun Instructor through the North Carolina Criminal Justice Training and Standards. His hobbies, besides shooting, are fishing, reading, cycling and scuba diving. He enjoys the shooting sports and is excited to help you!
Book a Lesson with Calvin

STEPHEN
Stephen is a firearms instructor for the state of North Carolina, responsible for firearms and tactical development. With over 22 years of law enforcement experience, the majority of his career has been spent on tactical teams. Stephen has numerous certifications and enjoys helping firearm Firearm enthusiasts to become safe and more confident in their abilities.
Book a Lesson with Stephen

ERIC
Eric was born and raised in Stanley, North Carolina. He graduated with his Masters from East Carolina University and went on to serve the Gastonia Police Department for 15 years. Eric is currently the Sergeant over the training bureau and lead firearms instructor for the department. Additionally, Eric served on the Gastonia Regional SWAT team for 13 years and now sits as one of the Team Leaders. He is passionate about firearms and excited to train with you!
Book a Lesson with Eric

TAYLOR
Taylor, born and raised in Gaston County, began his career with the Mount Holly Police Department. After a few years Taylor transitioned into a K9 handler and firearms instructor with the state of North Carolina. In 2015, Taylor was assigned to a Focus Mission Team with Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department and help with firearms instruction. Currently, Taylor serves as a patrol officer, firearms instructor, and Public Order Bike Officer.
Book a Lesson with Taylor

JIM
Jim is a former Captain of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office. With over 30 years total experience in Law Enforcement and 16 years as a GLOCK firearms instructor, Jim is an expert marksman. Jim holds more than 10 competition titles for handgun, rifle, shotgun, and submachine gun. He is devoted to the shooting sports and ready to help you achieve your goals!