Do you enjoy training events that push you to think outside the box while sharpening your practical skills? In the rugged yet serene landscapes of New Hampshire, Ken Allen Training LLC delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines competition, education, and community in the firearms world.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Kalashtober, the premier Kalashnikov-inspired competition and multi-gun defensive shooting event in the United States. What started as a small, intimate gathering of enthusiasts has grown into a two-day, multi-stage, 2A community and industry celebration that draws hundreds of competitors, spectators, and sponsors from across the country.
The Man Behind the Training: Ken Allen
Ken Allen’s passion for firearms began early. By age 16, he had absorbed volumes of knowledge through books, magazines, and hands-on experience. That early curiosity laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a nationally recognized training company.
Ken’s professional background is equally diverse. Before founding his own company, he served as a Search and Rescue Specialist and Confined Space Rescue Operator for New York State. He was also a professional outdoor education instructor and licensed guide, leading multi-day guided outdoor expeditions. These experiences honed his leadership, tactical, and logistical skills—abilities that now inform every Kalashtober stage.
From Sig Sauer to Kalashtober
Ken’s path led him to the Sig Sauer Academy, where his skills quickly gained recognition. After years of teaching at Sig Sauer, Ken launched Ken Allen Training LLC in 2016, bringing his philosophy of practical, hands-on, student-centered instruction to shooters of all skill levels.
What is Kalashtober?
Kalashtober isn’t just a competition—it’s a celebration of the Kalashnikov platform. It’s not about the man or its origin, but about practicality, utilitarianism, and reliability under adverse conditions and stress—values carried forward in training and in life. The event also celebrates defensive firearms and the broader shooting community.
It is a 3-Gun event designed for all defensive-type firearms. Competitors bring everything from AKs and ARs to SCARs, HKs, lever-action rifles, shotguns, and handguns. This year, 12+ challenging stages will test tactical skills, speed, and precision, with divisions for AKs, non-AKs, and PCCs.
Unique Challenges
The Minuteman stages, a hallmark of Kalashtober, begin by testing preparedness, observation, and quick response. Competitors start in a sleeping bag, boots off, firearm unloaded. At the beep, they must put on boots, lace, don any gear and or ruck, ready their firearm, find the target, and make the first hit—all in under a minute.
Other stages incorporate movement, cover, target identification, identifying trauma and treating, and even hauling weight—reflecting real-world defensive scenarios. Experienced competitors will be challenged, and newer shooters are guided through each stage to ensure safety, learning, and a positive experience.
Night Vision and Gear Demos
Kalashtober ’25 features an industry demo village, allowing participants and the public to test cutting-edge gear. A suppressed night-fire stage sponsored by Nocturn Industries lets shooters try helmet-mounted NVGs, lasers, and illuminators. Attendees can also explore night vision equipment and get hands-on instruction in its use.
Community and Competition
Kalashtober blends competition, education, and camaraderie. A Saturday night dinner fosters networking among shooters, instructors, and sponsors. Every competitor, not just division winners, receives drawing tickets for prizes—including firearms, suppressors, NVG gear, optics, holsters, ammo, and gear worth thousands of dollars.
Registration and Event Details
Dates: October 4-5, 2025
Location: Pelham, NH | Outdoor All-Weather Range
Competitor Registration:
- 2-Day Pass: $599
- 1-Day Pass: Saturday or Sunday (see website for details)
- Registration includes 12+ stages, night vision stage / demo, industry range, catered dinner, raffle tickets, and more
Safety & Waivers: Competitors must complete registration and liability forms online. Legal firearm ownership and basic proficiency are required. Newer competitors are welcome and will be guided through stages as needed.
Public Access: The public is invited to the industry demo village and spectator areas. Food trucks provide breakfast, lunch, and drinks.
Lodging: Corporate rate block at Holiday Inn, Salem, NH. Rooms are limited; call directly for booking.
Looking Ahead
Kalashtober ’25 promises bigger stages, more competitions, and even more community-building opportunities than ever before. From seasoned competitors to first-time participants, everyone will find challenges that test skill, judgment, and teamwork.
Ken Allen’s philosophy remains clear: knowledge is most powerful when shared, and Kalashtober embodies a decade-long tradition of learning, competition, and community within the firearms world.
Register early—limited competitor seats remain. For registration, safety waivers, and full event details, visit the Kalashtober ’25 webpage.
Follow on Instagram @kenallentraining to see past events and upcoming media from Kalashtober ‘25.
