Topics of Interest in Our Firearms & Shooting Instruction Classes
Introduction to Firearms
New to the world of shooting sports? We’re here to help you become more comfortable with your firearm through classroom-type instruction and hands-on time at the range.
Specific Technique Focus
Proper stance, aim and positioning all work together intricately, and even one wrong move can significantly affect your accuracy. We can help you hone your current technique to hit your target every time.
Self Defense
Dangerous situations are all around us. But with proper preparation, you can stop these events in their tracks. We’ll show you how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe with various armed and unarmed self-defense techniques.
Carry a Concealed Weapon
Since concealed carrying a firearm for self-defense is an incredible responsibility, proper training is crucial. Our experts can help you better understand your role as a CCW carrier in keeping the people around you safe. They can also provide the information and range time necessary for you to receive your CCW permit.
Competition Shooting
Whether you’re training for your first big competition or your hundredth, you’ll always find ways to continually improve as a shooter. Our experts are thoroughly familiar with the world of competition shooting and can provide insider tips to help you excel in the shooting sports.
Advanced Tactical Training
Tactical training encompasses several self-defense strategies using both armed and unarmed combat, which makes it ideal for those in the military, law enforcement, security or a related career. That said, the skills used in tactical training can benefit men and women of any age or occupation. We’ll show you how to use and apply these skills to a variety of situations.
Create Your Own
Firearms, shooting techniques and areas of interests aren’t one-size-fits-all — so why should your training be? We’ll customize a training program specific to your needs and the learning outcomes you hope to reach from our instruction.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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!
