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

Randi Rogers Idpa Texas Lede 2
Randi Rogers Idpa Texas Lede 2

Team Ruger's Randi Rogers Crushes 2026 Texas State Open Championship

Rogers competed with her Ruger RXM pistol, highlighting her skill and composure throughout the competition.

The Armed Citizen® Reload May 15, 2026

Trouble sleeping? Not anymore for three armed women who defended themselves from middle-of-the-night attackers.

Review: Henry's H16 Golden Boy .22 LR Deadeye Revolver

An adjustable sight set makes this double-action rimfire even more enjoyable to shoot.

Gun Stocks: Which Wood—You Choose!

The stock is the first thing you notice about a rifle. Here's why the wood chosen for a particular model firearm is anything but random.

Three Tips for Summer Road Trips While Carrying Concealed

It seems like an easy task to just pack your CCW and be on your way to your summer destination. But wait—there's more.

Where Memories Take Flight: A Mother-Son Tower Shoot

As shared by the author, the most meaningful moments with our children are the ones without distractions, when phones are put away and we can focus on simply making memories.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.