
STOP HQ—Strategic Tactics of Protection, LLC—specializes in what most firearms training classes fail at: making an 8-hour certification course interesting enough that you remember what you learned. Tony DeRico founded STOP after a law enforcement career where he earned the title of revolver expert. ...
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Full description and what we offer
STOP HQ—Strategic Tactics of Protection, LLC—specializes in what most firearms training classes fail at: making an 8-hour certification course interesting enough that you remember what you learned.
Tony DeRico founded STOP after a law enforcement career where he earned the title of revolver expert. Rather than retire the skills, he returned to his first love: shooting and teaching. That law enforcement background is the difference. When he walks you through a judgment call scenario, he's not reading from a workbook—he's pulling from real situations.
North Carolina requires a minimum 8-hour course plus handgun qualification to carry concealed. STOP delivers both in one day:
Classroom instruction (8 AM–5 PM): - North Carolina laws governing concealed carry and use of deadly force - Handgun safety and operation fundamentals - Storage and responsibility at home - Real-world judgment calls and scenarios
Range qualification (6 PM–8 PM): - Practical shooting exercises at various distances (3, 5, and 7 yards) - Coaching for first-time shooters through experienced marksmen - Meets ALL North Carolina state requirements
Everyone passes. Not because the standards are loose—because Tony adjusts instruction to skill level. Your class will mix first-timers borrowing a handgun with military veterans and prior law enforcement. He teaches all of them.
| Scenario | Cost |
|---|---|
| You bring your own handgun and 50 rounds | $100 |
| STOP provides handgun and ammunition | $150 |
All sales are final. Classes run Saturdays, 8 AM–5 PM classroom, 6 PM–8 PM range time.
If 8 hours in a group setting isn't your pace, STOP offers:
STOP HQ 3820 Merton Drive, Suite 110 Raleigh, NC 27609 (919) 946-7857 [email protected]
"Tony is patient and knowledgeable. He makes you feel comfortable and confident. The class teaches all of the responsibilities associated with having a CCW as well as hands-on instruction." — Earnest
"As a researcher navigating through discovering and verifying information, I discovered this course is the most essential gateway to safety, responsibility, knowledge of the laws and training." — Patricia H.
"Being a former law enforcement officer allows him to bring a unique perspective to the course material. His teaching technique is nicely paced, filled with real-world experiences and facts." — Todd
"I was very nervous initially in the class and more so on the range. Tony, your ease in both aspects calmed my nerves enabling me to successfully complete the course." — Edna
"The best 8 hours I spent learning anything. Only concern being I couldn't do 10 more with Tony." — Melvin McChristion
Repeated themes across 50+ reviews: knowledgeable, patient with beginners, funny enough to keep energy up all day, real-world perspective, makes everyone feel safe and confident.
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