Alaina James Wins Ladies Division at Red Oktober Kalashnikov Championships

James was the only woman competing in “full kit,” wearing a ballistic plate carrier and helmet.

by posted on October 27, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Alaina James Kusa
Image courtesy The Creative Ones Photography, Las Vegas

For the second year in a row, Kalashnikov USA’s (KUSA) sponsored shooter Alaina James placed first in the Ladies category at the Red Oktober Kalashnikov Championships, which took place Oct. 22-23 at Pro Gun Vegas in Boulder City, Nevada. James was the only woman competing in “full kit,” wearing a ballistic plate carrier and helmet. Alaina placed 23rd out of 146 shooters in the Heavy Open division and 7th out of only 35 shooters outfitted with full body armor.

“We’re immensely proud of Alaina’s impressive shooting this year” said Evan Rosenthal, Kalashnikov USA vice president. “Prior to winning again at Red Oktober, she had previously taken the High Ladies’ spot at Kalashnicon and at the AK Masters competitions; she is a force to be reckoned with” he added.

“This was a really challenging match, in windy and dusty conditions, that required intense concentration and stamina. Competing while carrying ballistic plates and a helmet only added to the intensity”, said James. “My KUSA KR-103 7.62x39mm rifle performed flawlessly. Then again, it is a KUSA Kalashnikov, so 100 percent reliability is the norm, not the exception. I’m grateful to Kalashnikov USA for their continued support and to the event staff at Red Oktober who did a fantastic job” she added.

Latest

Rao Glassbedding Non Floated Barrel Photo By Hallowellco Website
Rao Glassbedding Non Floated Barrel Photo By Hallowellco Website

Firearm Terminology: Understanding Rifle Glass Bedding

Glass bedding and free-floating barrels can no doubt improve the accuracy of your firearm, but you still need to do your part and become proficient with your firearm.

New Guns 2026: EAA Balikli Blue Label Over-Under Shotgun

Included in the introduction is a youth model, offered in .410 bore with 18.5″ barrel and an adjustable length of pull.

Henry Repeating Arms' New Rifle Series Gives Back to our National Forests

The National Forest Foundation Edition Rifle Series honors America’s National Forests and Grasslands while contributing to conservation projects across nearly 200 million acres of public lands nationwide.

Women for Gun Rights Launches First National Membership Program

The new program reflects increasing demand from supporters who want to become more actively involved in advancing WGR's mission of education, safety, and constitutional advocacy.

NRA Women’s Wilderness Escapes: Vacation from the Ordinary

Women of all skill levels and walks of life experience adventure in a safe, judgement-free Southwestern paradise.

The Armed Citizen® Reload March 20, 2026

The defensive gunshots fired by these women were non-fatal—but they left a lasting impression with the perpetrators.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.