Do you like training events that make you think outside the box? In the serene yet rugged landscape of New Hampshire, Ken Allen Training LLC provides an experience you can’t find anywhere else.
Founded by Ken Allen in 2016, this training and consulting company provides regional and travel training services, as well as product design consulting. The Ken Allen name has become synonymous with top-notch education and hands-on experience in the world of firearms.
With a background deeply rooted in outdoor education and extensive training with industry giants like Kyle Lamb, Chili Palmer, Kelly Venden, and many others, plus all associated with the Sig Sauer Academy, Ken brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his programs. If you haven’t heard of him or the highly anticipated annual Kalashtober event, you’re missing out.
The Man Behind the Training: Ken Allen
During an interview with Ken, we spoke of his journey into the world of firearms, which began at a young age. He recalls being passionate about firearms since he was old enough to walk.
He observed everything he could about the firearms world in books, gun magazines, etc. With so much material accumulated by the age of 16, his mom even asked what he planned to do with “all this information.” Neither of them knew at the time he would eventually become a nationally recognized firearms instructor.
Ken’s self-education in firearms led him to become an expert in the field, a journey he attributes to being in the right place at the right time.
Before his path took him to where he is today, Ken was a Search and Rescue Specialist and Confined Space Rescue Operator for the State of New York. He also spent years as a licensed guide, leading 10-day expeditions for large groups.
Along came Sig Sauer
Ken’s love for the outdoors and the firearms world led him to take classes at Sig Sauer’s training academy. His skill quickly caught attention and he was soon offered an internship. Eventually, Ken started teaching classes at the Sig Academy where he spent several years.
During his time with Sig Sauer, Ken worked with a diverse range of individuals and continually sought to expand his own education. He was passionate about learning and teaching others, so he didn’t hesitate to invest his own money in furthering his knowledge. This relentless pursuit of learning and sharing ultimately inspired Ken to start his own training company.
Ken Allen Training LLC was founded with the goal of make each student better, regardless of their starting level. Ken’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “Knowledge is most powerful when given to another.” He believes in building relationships with his students, sharing his expertise to help them become proficient and confident in their abilities.
The Birth of Kalashtober
Kalashtober is a unique event that celebrates the Kalashnikov platform while also incorporating just about every other type of firearm. As someone who values the reliability and robustness of the AK, Ken envisioned an event that be both educational and competitive.
What began as a small-scale event with 7-8 participants has evolved into an annual event with hundreds of attendees, including competitors, support staff, spectators, and sponsors. It’s a highly anticipated competition that’s also the oldest Kalashnikov-based event in the country.
Registered competitors are encouraged to bring their families as this is a family-oriented event. This stems from his desire to build relationships with others while learning, honing skills, and competing.
The event has evolved from purely educational to a competition-based format that still includes educational components. It features four ranges and an industry demo area, offering participants a comprehensive experience. Local and national companies are invited to participate, providing an opportunity for networking and growth within the industry.
What to Expect at Kalashtober
Kalashtober is designed for shooters of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Participants have the opportunity to shoot a variety of platforms side by side, with a strong emphasis on defensive guns. Family members (age 18 and older) are welcome as the event has plenty of fun for spectators as well.
The event accommodates a wide range of firearms, including AKs, ARs, SCARs, lever guns, shotguns, and even revolvers, if that’s your thing. Ken said the goal is to make sure anyone wishing to compete can run a stage with the firearm they bring. Different categories are created for each style of weapon to ensure fairness in scoring.
Competition Stages
The stages at Kalashtober are diverse and challenging, incorporating realistic scenarios that require movement, cover, and strategic thinking. Ken had trouble deciding which one of the stages was his favorite because he likes them all. But he mentioned one that stands out the most. Introduced last year, Ken calls it the “Minute Man.”
What is the “Minute Man” stage?
This stage requires participants to start in a sleeping position under a blanket or inside an unzipped sleeping bag. Shoes are off, gun is unloaded and made safe.
On the beep, the shooter must get up, put on their boots (and lace them up), load their gun, and make the first hit in under one minute. This year, the Minute Man stage will be part of a larger component, emphasizing preparedness and quick response.
I have done some fun shooting events in my lifetime, but I can’t say I’ve ever done a stage like the Minute Man. But of course, I really want to try it now! Ken said this stage reflects his passion for learning not just shooting fundamentals, but realistic training as well.
For those considering attending Kalashtober, Ken said participants can expect very physical stages. This includes crawling, hunting for targets, shooting from various positions, and even hauling some weight around.
Night Vision Testing and Demo
Do you have lights, lasers, night vision, and other gear you’ve never tested? Kalashtober offers the perfect opportunity. With a night trailer sponsored by Nocturn Industries, you’ll have free access to NVG gear, and a suppressed night live-fire session featuring top-tier helmet-mounted night vision, lasers, and illuminators — at no extra cost.
This is just one of many things offered at Kalashtober. A suppressed demo with live fire at night is something you can look forward to.
Community and Competition
Kalashtober isn’t just about the competition; it’s also about building community. The event features a dinner with staff, vendors, and competitors, where friendships form and grow. The friendships made during the non-competition times are just as important and valuable to Ken as the event itself. “I do this out of passion because I want to help others grow and achieve success,” said Ken.
Challenging All Skill Levels
The event is structured to challenge experienced shooters while providing instruction and assistance to beginners. Categories for various calibers and platforms ensure a level playing field. Some stages even incorporate shotguns, which highlights their importance in home defense.
While we were discussing the value of shotguns in self-defense situations, Ken noted something interesting. Baseline model pump shotguns are legal in every state, at least as far as we are aware. While it’s advisable to check local and state laws regarding firearms transportation, this could be something to consider when traveling through multiple states. A shotgun is a great self-defense firearm and possibly one of the easiest to transport.
Celebrating Sportsmanship and Effort
Another unique aspect of Kalashtober is the emphasis on sportsmanship and effort. The event includes a raffle and nearly $20,000 value in giveaways, including several rifles, Safariland holsters, nylon gear, and more.
Winners aren’t the only top performers at this event; those who demonstrate the best sportsmanship, improvement, or effort are also recognized, reinforcing the event’s community spirit. Ken mentioned that all registrants will receive raffle tickets as well.
Looking Forward to This Year’s Kalashtober
As this year’s Kalashtober approaches, excitement is building among participants and organizers. With new stages and challenges designed to test and improve the skills of all shooters, the event promises to be memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a beginner eager to learn, Kalashtober has something for everyone.
Ken Allen’s passion for firearms and education shines through in every aspect of the event. His dedication to creating a supportive yet challenging environment has made Kalashtober a priceless event in the firearms community. Participants can look forward to not only testing their skills but also forming lasting connections with fellow enthusiasts.
If you are interested in learning more about Kalashtober or the Ken Allen LLC training events and services, check out their website to explore all the training opportunities available. Whether you have an AK, AR, SCAR, HK, or even a taste for modern exotic guns, bring it along and get ready for some fun, challenging competition.
