Top 10mm Handguns and Pistols Reviewed

The 10mm caliber has developed a cult-like following over the years for good reason. It provides a level of power beyond mainstream calibers like 9mm, .45 ACP and even .40 S&W. Offering deeper penetration and greater muzzle energy than other common handgun loads, the 10mm bridges the gap between a versatile self-defense weapon and a powerful hunting sidearm.

Of course, with great power comes great recoil. However, those who invest time in mastering the 10mm will find it one of the most versatile handgun calibers available.

This article will review some of the top contenders in the 10mm field while highlighting what criteria and factors we used to select these exceptional pistols.

Why Choose a 10mm Handgun?

There are a few key advantages you gain from a 10mm handgun over smaller calibers:

Increased muzzle energy - 10mm rounds exit the barrel faster than 9mm or .45 ACP, giving bullets more kinetic energy on target. This translates to deeper penetration, better expansion and superior stopping power.

Flatter trajectory - Faster moving bullets suffer less drop over longer distances. This helps maintain accuracy for hunting, self-defense or plinking fun.

Versatility - With the right ammunition choice, a 10mm can serve as an all-purpose full power defensive arm, a hunting sidekick for medium game and even a competition gun. The flexibility is outstanding.

That said, the stout 10mm cartridge does have a personality all its own. While felt recoil can be mitigated with proper technique and purpose-built pistols, it generally hits harder than smaller bores.

The size of 10mm handguns also makes them less ideal for concealed carry. However, the tradeoff in power makes the caliber shine for lawful purposes where maximum terminal ballistics take priority.

Our Criteria for Selecting the Top 10mm Pistols

In reviewing the expanding array of 10mm options hitting today's market, we focused on models that achieved an ideal balance between power on demand and usability.

Specific criteria we emphasized in our rankings included:

Shootability - Recoil forces are managed appropriately allowing for accurate follow-up shots without punishing the shooter. Weight, grip texture, trigger qualities and other factors affect overall shootability.

Ergonomics - A comfortable, natural grip angle and control layout allows smooth weapon manipulation and aids accuracy.

Reliability - Any failures to feed, extract or eject are exceptionally rare occurrences. Long-term durability and component lifespan meet expectations.

Accuracy - Whether for hunting or self-defense, the pistol is capable of consistent and predictable shot placement within intended marksmanship standards.

Functionality - Approachable features like slide releases, safeties, magazine releases and other controls are sensibly laid out and performance focused.

Guided by these standards, we explored the extensive 10mm market to identify exceptional pistols suitable for various applications and budgets.

FN 510 Tactical- Best Pick

Overview

With impressive capacity, shooter-friendly ergonomics and flawless reliability, the FN 510 Tactical secures our top endorsement as the best jack-of-all-trades 10mm available. The pistol combines robust performance with superb handling that keeps the gun flat shooting even under high round counts. There's also ample room for accessories like optics, suppressors or weapon lights using the versatile railed frame.

MSRP: $999

Features and Specifications

• Action: Semi-auto, striker-fired
• Caliber: 10mm
• Capacity: 15 rounds (flush); 17 or 24 rounds (extended mags)
• Barrel Length: Cold hammer-forged, threaded 4.5 inches
• Weight: 26.9 ounces
• Optics ready with removable plate
• Ambidextrous slide release and mag release
• Polymer frame with replaceable steel rail system
• Available in black or flat dark earth

Pros

• Right out of the box accuracy
• Buttery smooth DA/SA trigger
• Impressive 15+1 capacity
• Easy manipulation under stress

Cons

• Hinged shoe triggers imperfect
• Texturing could use refinement

User Experience

Extensive testing has shown that the FN 510 Tactical is both soft-shooting and highly accurate straight from the factory. The mild perceived recoil encourages quick follow-up shots during rapid fire strings thanks to the low bore axis and superb balance. Impressive standard 15+1 capacity means fewer reloads needed during training sessions. Smooth, crisp trigger promotes precision while responsive slides lock back positively after the last round.

Shop The Best Defense 10mm Ammo At Pro Armory!

PMC Bronze 10mm Auto 170 Grain JHP

$20.00
at Pro Armory

view product

Prices accurate at time of writing

The FN 510 Tactical gives shooters absolute confidence whether used as a defensive tool or fun range blaster. The balanced handling complements instinctive shooting needed in stressed scenarios. Overall, FN’s fine-tuned 15-shot monster of a 10mm rewards owners with versatility for everything from home defense to hunting pack duties.

Sig Sauer P220 Legion 10mm - Best DA/SA 10mm

Overview

The Legion P220 converts Sig Sauer's combat-proven .45 ACP heritage into an even harder hitting 10mm powerhouse without giving up refinements tailored for serious work. Expect accuracy and reliability from this precision instrument.

MSRP: $1,317

Features and Specifications

• Action: Semi-auto, DA/SA
• Caliber: 10mm
• Capacity: 8 Rounds
• Barrel Length: 5" match-grade bull barrel
• Weight: 44 ounces
• SA Trigger Pull: 4.4 pounds
• Front cocking serrations
• Ergonomic Legion TXG grips
• X-RAY3 Day/Night sights

Pros

• Excellent accuracy from quality barrel
• Tuned crisp 4.4 pound SA trigger
• Customizable grip textures

Cons

• Higher bore axis than polymer guns
• Lower capacity than double stacks

User Experience

The all-steel frame masterfully mitigates felt recoil for fast follow-up shots. A smooth DA/SA transition promotes precision on first shots while the light SA break enhances speed. Easy to control recoil impulse, a crisp set trigger and checkered grip textures refine shooter accuracy. Night sights and optics-cut slides keep upgrading accuracy simple.

Sig Sauer's top-notch manufacturing ensures the slide moves smoothly, even under rigorous use. Dehorned edges prevent snagging for a fast, smooth first shot from concealment when needed.

The 8-round capacity handles most defensive applications despite falling short of high capacity double stack options. More importantly, shooters can rely on precise shot placement with full confidence. The Legion P220's intuitive precision transfers seamlessly between the range to the real world.

Glock 20 Gen 5 MOS - Most Reliable

Overview

With Glock’s pedigree for dependability and longevity spanning decades, the Gen 5 G20 MOS offers home defense readiness and hunting utility in one full-size 10mm package trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike.

MSRP: $699

Features and Specifications

• Action: Semi-auto, striker-fired
• Caliber: 10mm
• Capacity: 15+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 4.61 inches
• Weight: 30.6 ounces
• Finish: nDLC Coated Slide
• Sights: Removable metal night sights
• Accessory Rail & MOS Configuration

Pros

• Legendary Glock reliability under adverse conditions
• Workhorse durability from minimal components
• Reasonable practical field accuracy

Cons

• Squishy factory trigger needs aftermarket polish
• Rugged sights suitable for backup use only

User Experience

The Gen 5 G20 stands up to tough conditions that stop lesser guns. Its loose tolerances allow dirt and debris to pass through without jamming internal components. This makes the G20 a reliable companion for outdoor activities like off-roading or hunting from treestands.

Quick reloads come courtesy of a roomy magazine well and extended slide release. The Glock mounting rail readily accepts lights or lasers to expand functionality. Durable metal sights resist damage while still providing backup aiming options if optics fail.

Seasoned 10mm aficionados appreciate how the G20’s weight tames felt recoil, enabling accurate follow-up shots. An ideal grip angle instinctively orients the muzzle downrange. A trigger safety and passive safety system prevent accidental discharge yet allows fast response when threats arise.

Both professionals and citizens rely on the G20 Gen 5 MOS to provide formidable protective capabilities across self-defense, sport shooting and hunting applications. Its resilience to fouling and recoil management ensures 10mm power stays on target through extended use.

Springfield XD-M Elite Compact OSP 10mm - Best Compact 10mm

Overview

The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite, a high-capacity subcompact, offers powerful 10mm performance in a robust yet compact design that outlasts less durable models.

MSRP: $843

Features and Specifications

• Action: Striker-fired
• Caliber: 10mm
• Capacity: 11+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
• Weight: 27 ounces
• Length: 7 inches
• Construction: Forged Steel Slide & Polymer Frame
• Sights: FO Front & Tactical Rack U-Dot Rear

Pros

• Easy, adaptable concealed carry
• Tuned 4-pound flat trigger
• Fully ambidextrous controls
• Oversize magazine release

Cons

• Noticeably snappier recoil
• Grip safety sensitive for some hands

User Experience

Finding a way to conceal carry the hard hitting 10mm cartridge typically requires large, full-size handguns. But Springfield Armory's XD-M Elite Compact flips the script. This highly packable pistol harnesses fearsome 10mm power in a frame built for everyday concealed carry.

Despite the short 3.8-inch barrel, the Elite Compact retains enough velocity for reliable expansion. The two-tone finish looks great and holds up well to real world scrapes and bumps. Although compact, the textured grip enables a solid hold to manage stout recoil. The controls work smoothly for both left and right handed shooters.

So for those seeking to discreetly carry the authoritative punch of the 10mm, the Elite Compact brings a deceptively small package. It's equally at home as a social sidearm or high stakes defensive tool. With just a bit of practice, users find its bark matches its concealed bite.

Sig Sauer P320 X TEN - Most Modular

Overview

Sig Sauer's P320-XTEN introduces a high capacity, adaptable 10mm built to balance reputable terminal ballistics with tolerance for high round counts. The party piece involves swapping grip modules to convert between calibers and sizes within the XSeries ecosystem.

MSRP: $900

Features and Specifications

• Action: Striker-fired
• Caliber: 10mm
• Capacity: 15+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 5 inches
• Weight: 33 ounces
• Interchangeable grip module
• Optics ready slide
• Extended slide release
• Flared magazine well

Pros

• Reformable polymer grip frame
• Generous slide serrations
• Smooth rolling break trigger
• Tactical rail for attachments
• Aggressive grip texturing

Cons

• Top heavy weight balance
• Undefined trigger wall

User Experience

What makes the P320-XTEN special is its innovative XSeries grip frame. This lets you change the gun's caliber and size by swapping modules. The rugged slide handles 10mm cartridges without any issues. To enhance reloading speed, the flared magwell complements an extended slide release and numerous grooves on the slide that make handling the gun smoother. . The slide is also ready to mount miniature red dot sights for quicker targeting.

The rolling break trigger gives you the same smooth pull every shot. While it feels slightly top heavy without a magazine, the polymer frame helps control recoil when loaded. The textured backstrap sticks firmly in your hand without being too rough. This helps manage the punch of potent 10mm rounds. Night sights align with popular optics. The rail mounts tactical lights.

Overall, Sig Sauer made the XTEN 10mm for tactical shooters wanting the flexibility of the P320 platform. The swappable parts remove limiting factors for 10mm fans focused on function over concealment. The XTEN allows you to fully exploit the power of 10mm while ensuring part longevity and reliability. The modular serialized fire control unit (FCU) also lets you adjust the size of your firearm—from full size to compact—by simply changing to a $40 grip module, eliminating the need for multiple guns.

Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 10mm - Best Ergonomics

(www.smith-wesson.com)

Overview

Smith and Wesson's M&P 2.0 10mm pistol strikes an ideal balance between high-octane power and exceptional handling comforts essential for high round count shooting.

MSRP: $769

Features and Specifications

• Action: Striker-fired
• Caliber: 10mm
• Capacity: 15+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 4 inches – 4.6 inches
• Weight: 27.8 ounces – 29.3 ounces
• Interchangeable grips
• Picatinny accessory rail
• Aggressive grip texturing
• Audible trigger reset

Pros

• Intuitive handling
• Generous slide serrations
• Crisp trigger break
• High visibility sights

Cons

• Squishy trigger press
• Rear sight snags on draws

User Experience

The M&P 2.0 10mm stands out for its exceptional ergonomics and handling, making it a top choice for shooters who value comfort and usability. The replaceable back straps allow most hands to find an ideal personalized grip fit. Users praise the smooth, predictable trigger pull which supports accurate shot placement even during rapid firing strings. The textured frame offers a secure hold without feeling rough or abrasive over extended range sessions.

Tall suppressor-height sights maintain visibility when tracking targets laterally across the field of view. Generous front and rear slide serrations provide ample purchase for press checks and malfunction clearing drills. An audible “click” signals the trigger reset for improved follow-up precision. The flared magazine well speeds smooth reloads when fractions of seconds matter. A convenient picatinny accessory rail allows adding weapon-mounted lights to boost low light utility.

By optimizing key manual operation and shooting comfort factors, Smith & Wesson evolved their proven M&P platform into a 10mm workhorse ready to take full advantage of the caliber’s strengths. The M&P 2.0 10mm brings out the best of an already formidable legacy design for owners prioritizing ergonomics and resilience in a potent semi-auto package.

Dan Wesson Specialist 10mm - High-End Pick

Overview

Dan Wesson’s premier 1911 platform handles 10mm ammunition as smoothly as a finely tuned race car.

MSRP: $2,367

Features and Specifications

• Action: Semi-auto, SAO 1911
• Caliber: 10mm
• Capacity: 8+1 Rounds
• Barrel Length: 5 inches
• Weight: 42.3 ounces

Pros

• Flawless reliability even with hot loads
• The trigger breaks cleanly at 2.5 pounds, like a glass rod snapping.
• Precisely fit slide to frame
• Phenomenal all steel construction
• Custom quality for production price

Cons

• The single-stack magazine limits capacity
• It represents a significant investment compared to polymer models.

User Experience

Shooting the Specialist 10mm is an exceptional experience that explains why Dan Wesson has so many devoted followers. Right out of the box, it offers smooth and flawless functioning thanks to immaculate manufacturing and hand-fitting.

The slide glides back and forth with ease, showing perfect integration of all machined components. Crisp trigger breaks at 2.5 pounds promote surgical shooting precision. Proper frame tension absorbs recoil forces into a non-issue. Even rapid firing of 8 rounds will dispel myths about 1911 misfeeds caused by sloppy production tolerances. Spent shells eject quickly before the next cartridge reliably chambers with authority.

In simpler terms, no semi-custom 10mm straight from the factory provides such pristine handling or long-lasting dependability as owners have come to expect from the Specialist. Dan Wesson earns merits as both a functional heirloom passing between generations and a defensive pistol responsive to the competency of whoever holds it.

Origin Story Of 10mm Auto

The 10mm Auto cartridge traces its creation back to extensive research and testing in the late 1970s seeking to develop a more terminally effective semi-automatic pistol load. Renowned firearms expert Lt. Colonel Jeff Cooper teamed up with Whit Collins, an innovative firearms manufacturer and ballistics specialist Mike Dixon.

Together, they scrutinized the capabilities of current staples like .45 ACP and 9mm loads for defensive pistol use. Their analysis identified key shortcomings in stopping power and versatility that they set out to improve upon dramatically.

Shop The Best Defense 10mm Ammo At Pro Armory!

PMC Bronze 10mm Auto 170 Grain JHP

$20.00
at Pro Armory

view product

Prices accurate at time of writing

Drawing deeply from his intimate firearms and shooting mastery, Lt. Colonel Cooper helped define critical objectives for the ideal cartridge they envisioned. Alongside maximum control and accuracy for the shooter, the round needed to achieve superior energy transfer on target.

Collins set to work meticulously testing various case dimensions and propellant combinations. Dixon contributed ballistics expertise assessing projectile weights and performance. Eventually, they perfected a load firing a 200 grain bullet at a sizzling 1,200 feet per second pace - greatly surpassing the .45 ACP's standards in a controllable, pistol platform.

Although receiving glowing reviews and FBI approval initially some agents struggled managing the full power 10mm loads in service use. This led to the development of downloaded 10mm rounds dubbed "10mm Lite" and ultimately the .40 S&W altogether. For years, this hampered widespread 10mm adoption until recently.

Now the 10mm Auto enjoys a passionate renaissance among discerning shooters drawn to its unique flexibility for hunting and self-defense needs alike. Ongoing innovations in projectiles and propellants continue expanding its capabilities. As shooting aptitude advances, interest in the 10mm thrives thanks to its unmatched blend of accuracy, energy potential and tactical prowess.

Pros and Cons of 10mm

Pros

• Projectile energy eclipses 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP for superior impact
• Velocity flattens trajectory benefiting precision
• Broadly applicable for hunting and defense
• Diverse bullet weights suit unique needs
• At home in both semi-automatic pistols and revolvers
• Specialized loads enhancing functionality

Cons

• Perceived recoil heavier than typical calibers
• Size/weight limitations exist for concealed carry
• Long cartridge restricts capacity in some models
• Requires sampling ammunition to optimize specific uses
• Ammo costs run higher than common types
• Recoil control isn’t as intuitive initially

The 10mm still kicks harder than smaller calibers, making concealed carry a challenge. However, interest keeps growing as shooters are drawn to the lure of top-tier power from a semi-auto pistol.

Recent advances in bullet technology, gunpowder formulas and firearm materials help tame some of the sharp bark that's been part of 10mm lore since its start in the 1960s.

More and more gun makers are now offering guns chambered in this versatile caliber. With continued refinements, the 10mm Auto looks to maintain a steady following among discerning shooters prioritizing safety and personal defense for the long run.

Conclusion

The 10mm retains devoted fans, a niche expected to expand as bullet, propellant and gun advances continue. Capable in hunting and defense roles, vocal adherents tout the round’s flexibility as a “Goldilocks Gun” – not too much, not too little, just right.

This review extensively covered industry staples and promising models seeking 10mm greatness. We focused on real-world function, not just stats that don't always convey viability downrange. Though not strictly for beginners, current options make 10mm mastery more accessible than ever for determined shooters drawn to one of the most powerful auto rounds available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 10mm practical for everyday carry?

While challenging for concealed carry, the 10mm works well for home defense. Shooters need some practice managing recoil and muzzle rise. With proper technique, it's a very capable self-defense caliber.

What ammo considerations apply to the 10mm?

It operates at higher pressures than similar pistol rounds. Carefully follow manufacturer guidelines for ammo selection. Specialty loadings greatly expand the 10mm's flexibility.

How does the 10mm differ from .40 S&W?

The 10mm pushes bullets markedly faster thanks to generous case capacity, achieving much higher velocity and energy from longer barrels.

Which 10mm pistols work for hunting?

Full-size platforms allow the 10mm to fully develop ballistic potential. Glock 20, Sig P220 and Tanfoglio Witness models are great hunting companions.

How snappy is 10mm recoil compared to .45 ACP?

Sharper, yet effective technique controls the impulse. Proper grip, stance and fundamentals are key. Heavy bullets also help smooth out recoil.

Does the 10mm need special maintenance?

Overall care follows normal semi-auto pistol protocols. However, recoil springs wear faster. Watch for unusual parts wear.

Why are quality 10mm handguns more expensive?

Tighter tolerances suit high pressures. Precise machining, match-grade components and limited caliber availability increase cost.