The Best 10mm Handguns

Top 10mm Handguns – They promise a loaded experience for shooters who seek power, performance, and even high reliability. Whether preparing for self-defense, hunting down big-game animals, or just target practice, weapons with this caliber boast the ability to “stop” someone with moderate recoil. 

The 10mm Auto round is one of the best combinations in velocity and penetration, and can easily take all these into account. This guide will provide expert picks, performance information, and real-world comparisons to help you choose the best firearm option for your practical needs. Come on, let’s take apart these top 10mm pistols that deserve attention from you.

📖 Table of Contents 

1️⃣	Why the 10mm? 🔥
2️⃣	Types of 10mm Handguns 🔫
3️⃣	How I Chose the Best 10mm Handgun ✅
4️⃣	Best 10mm by Category 🏆
5️⃣	FN 510 Tactical 🥇
6️⃣	Glock 29: Best Concealed Carry 10mm 👀
7️⃣	Glock 20: Best Home Defense 10mm 🏠

📘 Table of Contents 

8️⃣	Ruger GP100: Best 10mm Revolver 🛠️
9️⃣	Colt Delta Elite: Best 1911-Style 10mm 1911
🔟	SIG P320-Xten: Most Modular 🔧
1️⃣1️⃣	S&W M&P 2.0 10mm: Best Ergonomics 🤲
1️⃣2️⃣	Best 10mm Handgun Reviews 🔍
1️⃣3️⃣	10mm Ammo Options 🧨
1️⃣4️⃣	FAQs ❓
1️⃣5️⃣	Conclusion 💥

The Contest and Contestants

In this shootout, we’re putting the best 10mm handguns head-to-head. Each one brings a mix of firepower, design, and features. Only top contenders made the cut.

From classic names to newer innovators, this lineup doesn’t hold back. Every gun was tested for real-world performance. You’re about to meet some serious hardware.

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The Ultimate 10mm Showdown

This isn’t just a comparison—it’s a 10mm handgun battle for the crown. We tested in real conditions, not just on paper. Recoil, balance, and handling were all fair game.

Some pistols surprised us. Others proved why they’ve earned a loyal following. Only one will walk away the champ.

Ergonomics

How a handgun feels in your grip makes a huge difference. Good ergonomics mean better control and faster follow-up shots. Bad design? You’ll feel it immediately.

We looked at grip texture, size, weight distribution, and controls. Some pistols melted into the hand. Others? Not so much.

Score:
We rated ergonomics on comfort, grip texture, and ease of control. Top scores went to those with smart design choices. The winner here felt like an extension of your arm.

Iron Sights

Old school still holds strong. Good iron sights should be clear, quick to align, and tough as nails. They’re your backup when electronics fail.

Some models came ready with high-vis front posts. Others stuck with bare-bones setups. Sight radius and visibility made all the difference.

Score:
We scored iron sights on speed and precision under pressure. Clean design and solid visibility earned top marks. One clear leader stood out from the rest.

Red Dot Sight Compatibility

Today’s shooters want optics-ready slides. Red dot sight compatibility is no longer a luxury—it’s expected. Fast target acquisition gives you the edge.

We checked for out-of-the-box readiness and plate system quality. Some models required extra parts; others were optic-ready out the gate.

Score:
We rated red dot sight compatibility by ease of mounting and flexibility. Guns that worked with multiple optics scored highest. Simplicity and versatility won this round.

Reliability

A jammed pistol is a non-starter. Reliability under stress, dirt, and heavy use separates good from great. We ran hundreds of rounds through each model.

Failures were logged, and so were flawless runs. If it fed, fired, and ejected like clockwork, it earned high marks.

Score:
We measured reliability in real-world conditions. Guns that worked no matter what came their way topped the list. Malfunctions? That cost big points.

Price

We all want the best, but not everyone has an unlimited budget. Price matters—especially when quality meets value. Some high-priced models impressed, others fell short.

Affordable options surprised us with their performance. The balance of cost and features played a big role in the rankings.

Score:
We scored prices based on overall value. High cost had to come with premium performance. Budget-friendly guns that are still delivered? They earned serious respect.

Trigger

The trigger sets the tone. A smooth, crisp break with a short reset makes shooting faster and more accurate. Mushy or gritty triggers kill confidence.

We judged travel, break weight, reset, and feel. Some were tuned to perfection. Others had us itching for aftermarket upgrades.

Score:
Trigger feel was scored on precision and responsiveness. Clean breaks and short resets dominated. The best ones practically fired themselves.

Accuracy

It all comes down to this. Accuracy decides hits or misses. We tested with various loads, distances, and conditions to find consistency and precision.

A great shooter with a bad gun still struggles. But even average shooters can shine with the right tool in hand.

Score:
We scored accuracy based on groupings, repeatability, and performance across ammo types. Tight patterns and predictable shots ruled the day.

And the Winner Is…

After all the lead flew and the scores were tallied, one 10mm handgun stood above the rest. It wasn’t just good—it excelled everywhere.

This pistol offered balance, value, and rock-solid performance. It proved itself in every category and earned its crown.

Last Shot

The 10mm handgun market is full of options. Some are flash, some are function—but the best combine both. Our testing revealed who truly delivers.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, picking the right tool is key. Now you know where to aim.

Shop

Looking for your next 10mm pistol? Check trusted retailers for current prices and availability. New models pop up often, so keep an eye out.

You’ll find options for every need—home defense, trail carry, or range time fun. Make sure to grab ammo and accessories while you’re at it.

Sign In or Create a Free Account

Want to save your favorites or get alerts on restocks? Sign in or create a free account to keep track of deals and new arrivals.

It’s fast, free, and keeps you in the loop. Serious shooters stay ready—and logged in.

The Revival of the 10mm Continues

The 10mm Auto is back—and it’s not just hype. Once thought too powerful for daily carry, shooters now crave it’s punch and versatility. Ammo innovation and better recoil management changed the game.

From backwoods bear protection to tactical roles, this round has found its sweet spot. The market is booming, and 10mm handguns are hotter than ever.

Best 10mm Pistols & Handguns: Go Big or Go Home

If you’re reaching for a 10mm handgun, you’re not here to play it safe. You want raw power, precision, and performance. These pistols bring all that—and more.

Forget soft recoil or lightweight rounds. This list is for those who want serious stopping power without sacrificing control.

THE QUICK LIST

Need the highlights fast? Here’s a snapshot of the best 10mm pistols in each category. Whether you’re a new buyer or a seasoned shooter, there’s something here for you.

We’ve listed the top picks by performance, purpose, and feel. Scroll down for in-depth reviews and scores.

How We Chose The Best 10mm Pistols

We didn’t just eyeball specs—we fired hundreds of rounds. Accuracy, ergonomics, reliability, and value were key. Real-world testing separated hype from high performance.

We also factored in versatility, aftermarket support, and ease of maintenance. These picks earned their spots the hard way.

Best 10mm Handguns

Here’s the core of it—the best 10mm handguns money can buy. We’re talking top-tier performance, serious craftsmanship, and mission-ready builds.

Each pistol was tested, scored, and compared. If it makes this list, it’s built to deliver when it counts.

1. FN 510 Tactical – Editor’s Pick

The FN 510 Tactical hits hard with a 22+1 capacity and optic-ready slide. Threaded barrel? Check. Suppressor height sights? Included. It’s a beast built for battle.

It’s bulky, but the balance is spot-on. This is our Editor’s Pick for its all-in-one readiness and tactical upgrades.

2. Sig Sauer P220 Legion – Best DA/SA 10mm

Looking for that classic DA/SA trigger feel with modern flair? The Sig P220 Legion delivers precision and a buttery-smooth trigger pull.

It’s heavier, but that helps soak up recoil. Great for serious shooters who love traditional mechanics with elite performance.

3. Glock 20 – Most Reliable 10mm

The Glock 20 is a legend in the 10mm world. It runs dirty, wet, cold—whatever. If you want dead-simple reliability, this is it.

Its polymer frame helps with weight, and it’s backed by Glock’s bulletproof rep. Not flashy, just functional and built to last.

4. Springfield XD-M Elite Compact OSP – Best Compact 10mm

The Springfield XD-M Elite Compact packs 10mm muscle into a carry-friendly size. It’s optic-ready, with a Match Enhanced trigger and solid accuracy.

It gives you all the perks of a full-size in a smaller frame. Great for CCW and hiking with power to spare.

Readers’ Ratings

Want to know what other shooters think? We pulled user reviews and ratings from forums and retailers. Real-world experience gives real-world insight.

Average scores are high, but a few pistols stood out in fan-favorite categories. Scroll down to cast your vote.

Your Rating?

Tried one of these 10mm pistols? Drop your own rating below. Your feedback helps fellow shooters choose the right gear.

Every review counts. Tell us what worked—or didn’t—for you.

5. Sig Sauer P320-X TEN – Most Modular

Love flexibility? The Sig P320-XTEN is your dream gun. It’s modular, optic-ready, and has an excellent trigger feel out of the box.

Great for those who like to customize or swap frames and slides. It’s a future-proof choice with serious performance.

6. Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 10mm – Best Ergonomics

The M&P 2.0 10mm nails comfort. Its textured grip, natural point-of-aim, and crisp trigger make it easy to control—even with 10mm recoil.

If feel matters to you, this is a top contender. It’s accurate, reliable, and built for all-day shooting comfort.

7. Dan Wesson Specialist – High-End 10mm Handgun Pick

Looking for luxury in a sidearm? The Dan Wesson Specialist delivers custom-shop quality with hand-fit parts and flawless machining.

It’s pricey, but worth every penny if you demand precision. Shoots like a dream, looks like a showpiece.

Origin Story: 10mm Auto

Born in the 1980s, the 10mm Auto was designed for the FBI. It promised magnum-level power in a semi-auto platform. Early guns struggled with recoil.

But time—and better engineering—brought the caliber back. Today, it’s a favorite for hunting, defense, and backcountry carry.

Pros and Cons of 10mm

Pros: High velocity, deep penetration, better range, and more energy than 9mm or .45 ACP. It’s ideal for defense against both two-legged and four-legged threats.

Cons: Ammo cost, snappy recoil, and fewer compact options. Not for every shooter—but if you can handle it, it’s worth it.

Why You Should Trust Pew Pew Tactical

All picks were tested hands-on by experienced shooters. We don’t take freebies or pay-for-play reviews. Just honest, in-the-field results.

Pew Pew Tactical has been a trusted voice in the gun community for years. Our mission? Help you shoot smarter and safer.

10mm Pistol Development

The 10mm Auto was born to bridge a gap—more power than 9mm, faster than .45 ACP. It hit hard, but early adopters struggled with recoil and platform compatibility.

For years, it sat on the back burner. But now? Thanks to better design and ammo evolution, it’s making a serious comeback.

The 10mm Auto Renaissance

What caused the 10mm pistol resurgence? Hunters, backcountry hikers, and tactical shooters started demanding more punch. The 10mm delivers—and manufacturers listened.

Modern recoil systems, tougher materials, and optics-ready slides turned it from niche to mainstream. It’s the comeback story of the decade.

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How I Chose The Best 10mm Pistols

Every 10mm handgun on this list was chosen based on real-world performance, not just marketing claims. I looked at handling, reliability, trigger feel, and accuracy.

I tested for versatility, too. Home defense, carry, range, or woods—each pick fits a specific role. And yes, value mattered.

The Best 10mm Pistols

You’re here for the best. These 10mm pistols combine power, reliability, and thoughtful design. Each one stood out in a different way.

Whether you’re looking for a duty gun, a trail companion, or a daily carry, you’ll find your match below.

Specs Comparison Of The Top 10mm Pistols

Model	Capacity	Barrel Length	Weight	Optics Ready
Glock 20	15+1	4.6″	30.69 oz	No
Colt Delta Elite	8+1	5.0″	38.0 oz	No
FN 510 Tactical	22+1	4.71″	32 oz	Yes
SIG Sauer P220 Legion	8+1	5.0″	44 oz	No
Springfield XD-M Elite Compact OSP	11+1	3.8″	28.5 oz	Yes

Bonus: 10mm Auto Ammo Options

Ammo makes or breaks performance. 10mm Auto ranges from light target loads to heavy bear-stoppers. Pick the right grain and velocity for your needs.

Brands like Underwood, Buffalo Bore, and Federal offer great defensive and hunting loads. Always match ammo to your pistol’s recoil setup.

Why the 10mm?

The.10mm Auto is a powerful semi-auto round. It provides more energy than the .45 ACP yet better range than the 9mm. The FBI developed it, but it soon became favored by hunters and backcountry travelers, as well as tactical shooters. 

This high velocity and deep penetration combination makes it well suited for self-defense and dangerous games. If you want a handgun that’s got some serious stopping power, then look no further as the 10mm brings the heat.

Types of 10mm Handguns

There are two main styles of semi-automatic 10mm handguns versus revolver 10mm handguns. Each presents unique perks depending on the mission.

Glock 20 and FN 510-type semi-autos offer high capacity and fast reloading. Ruger GP100-type 10mm revolvers trade some of that capacity for tank-like ruggedness and simplicity. 

How I Chose the Best 10mm Handgun

None of these picks were just random ones. Each 10mm pistol or revolver was tested, researched, and compared according to functioning, comfort, and value.

Key goals focused on reliability, ergonomics, accuracy, trigger feel, and purpose-oriented design. Only proven performers made the list.

Best 10mm by Category

Here’s your quick guide to the top 10mm handguns by role. Whether you’re defending your home, exploring the woods, or packing concealed, there’s a perfect fit below:

• FN 510 – Best Full-Size Tactical
  
• Glock 29 – Best for Concealed Carry
  
• Glock 20 – Best for Home Defense
  
• Ruger GP100 – Best 10mm Revolver
  
• Colt Delta Elite – Best 1911-Style
  
• SIG P320-X Ten – Most Modular Design
  
• S&W M&P 2.0 10mm – Best Ergonomics

FN 510

Constructed specifically to withstand combat, the FN 510 Tactical is a full-size 10mm power pack that packs a punch.

Packed with a 22+1 capacity, optics-ready slide, suppressor-height sights; it checks off every tactical box. Whether for carrying at home, deployed, or serious range time-it’s made for it all. 

Glock 29

The king among compact 10mm pistols is, of course, the Glock 29. Small enough to conceal, but still holding on with all 10 rounds in the magazine.

Built with Glock’s legendary reliability, this is the best concealed carry 10mm for those who like big energy in a small frame.

Glock 20

When you want raw power and high capacity, the Glock 20 delivers. With 15+1 rounds and proven durability, it’s perfect for backwoods carry or home defense.

It’s simple, rugged, and always ready to go bang.

Ruger GP100

Not a fan of autos? The Ruger GP100 Match Champion is your revolver solution. Built like a tank, it fires 10mm through a six-shot cylinder and delivers tight groups with less recoil than you’d expect.

It’s the best 10mm revolver on the market—hands down.

Colt Delta Elite

The Colt Delta Elite brings 10mm to the classic 1911 design. With its sleek lines, clean trigger, and deep Colt heritage, it’s a fan favorite for old-school shooters.

Great for range days, open carry, or adding to a collection with bite.

SIG P320-Xten

The SIG P320-Xten is all about flexibility. It’s optic-ready, modular, and features a smooth flat-face trigger. Swap frames, slides, and grips to fit your exact needs.

A great pick for shooters who want customization without compromising performance.

S&W M&P 2.0 10mm

Smith & Wesson’s M&P 2.0 10mm shines in the hand. With aggressive grip texture, a crisp trigger, and great recoil control, it’s one of the most shooter-friendly pistols on this list.

If comfort and control are your top priorities, this one wins.

Best 10mm Handgun Reviews

Now for the deep dive. Below you’ll find individual reviews of the best 10mm pistols, complete with specs, real-world feedback, and where to buy.

#1 FN 510

The FN 510 Tactical stands out with serious tactical capability. Threaded barrel, suppressor-height sights, and massive capacity? Yes, please.

Our Grade: A

Reader’s Grade: A-

Your Grade: ★ Rate this gun below!

FN 510 Specs

Feature	Detail
Capacity	22+1
Barrel Length	4.71″
Weight	32 oz
Optic Ready	Yes
Frame Material	Polymer

FN 510 10mm Review

This thing is built for serious use. The recoil feels manageable thanks to its size and weight. The controls are crisp, and accuracy is dialed in.

With a red dot, it’s a beast for fast follow-ups. The capacity is hard to beat.

FN 510 Pros and Cons

Pros

• Huge capacity (22+1)
  
• Threaded barrel + optics ready
  
• Excellent build quality
  

Cons

• Larger grip not ideal for small hands
  
• Not great for concealed carry

#2 Glock 29 : Best Concealed Carry 10mm

Need 10mm in a compact form? The Glock 29 brings heat without bulk. Great for CCW in wild country or urban jungles.

Our Grade: A

Reader’s Grade: B+

Your Grade: ★ Rate this pistol below!

Glock 29 Specs

Feature	Detail
Capacity	10+1
Barrel Length	3.78″
Weight	26.83 oz
Optic Ready	No
Frame Material	Polymer

Glock 29 Review

This pistol carries surprisingly well for a 10mm. Recoil is snappy, but manageable. It’s a solid option for those who want power in a small frame.

Great for backup carry, hiking trips, or concealed defense with punch.

Glock 29 Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact size for CCW
  
• Glock’s simple, reliable design
  
• Accepts G20 mags
  

Cons

• No optics-ready option
  
• Harsh recoil in small frame

#3 Glock 20 : Best Home Defense 10mm

The Glock 20 is the dependable beast you need at your bedside. It offers high capacity, simple operation, and battle-tested reliability.

Our Grade: A+

Reader’s Grade: A

Your Grade: ★ Cast your vote below!

Glock 20 Specs

Feature	Detail
Capacity	15+1
Barrel Length	4.6″
Weight	30.69 oz
Optic Ready	No
Frame Material	Polymer

Glock 20 Review

This is your all-around, all-weather, all-situation sidearm. Big grip, big power, and big results. Works well with gloves and under stress.

Not fancy, just functional. And that’s why it dominates.

Glock 20 Pros and Cons

Pros

• High capacity
  
• Dead-simple controls
  
• Proven durability
  

Cons

• Bulky frame
  
• No built-in optic compatibility

#4 Ruger GP100 Match Champion : Best 10mm Revolver

Prefer wheel guns? The Ruger GP100 10mm is built like a tank and shoots like a dream. A revolver that handles the power of 10mm with style.

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FAQ’S

Is the 10mm too powerful for everyday carry?

10mm handguns do pack a serious punch, but many compact models—like the Glock 29 or Springfield XD-M Elite Compact—make everyday carry possible. Just be prepared for a bit more recoil and weight compared to 9mm or .45 ACP pistols. If you’re confident in your handling, it’s a solid EDC option with more stopping power.

What makes the 10mm better than .45 ACP or 9mm?

The 10mm Auto delivers higher velocity, deeper penetration, and better long-range performance. Compared to .45 ACP, it offers flatter trajectories. Against 9mm, it brings more kinetic energy and stopping power. It’s especially popular for defense in bear country or situations where heavy-duty performance matters.

Are 10mm pistols reliable?

Absolutely—modern 10mm handguns are more reliable than ever. Brands like Glock, SIG Sauer, and FN have engineered models that handle the round with ease. Earlier 10mm pistols had issues due to recoil and slide stress, but today’s options are built to run smooth and tough.

Can I use 10mm handguns for hunting?

Yes! In fact, many hunters prefer 10mm pistols for medium-sized game and as a backup against predators. With the right ammo—like hard cast or heavy grain jacketed rounds—10mm offers the punch and penetration needed for ethical kills at close range.

Is 10mm ammo expensive or hard to find?

10mm ammo is pricier than 9mm, but it’s more available than it used to be. Prices vary, especially between target rounds and premium hunting or self-defense loads. Brands like Federal, Underwood, and Buffalo Bore offer great options, and more online shops now keep it in stock.

Conclusion

The Best 10mm Handguns offer a powerful blend of performance, versatility, and reliability for shooters who demand more from their sidearm. Whether you’re protecting your home, hitting the trail, or heading to the range, there’s a 10mm out there that fits your needs.

From full-size tactical beasts to compact carry options, these handguns deliver serious stopping power without sacrificing control. If you’re ready to step up your game, choosing from the best 10mm handguns ensures you’re armed with one of the most capable calibers available today.