7 Best 10mm Pistol Reviews of 2023 | Top-Rated Handguns of This Powerful Caliber

There are plenty of reasons why Glock is so highly-trusted, both among police forces and citizens. It’s always been known for being reliable. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that the 10mm Glock is user-friendly and accessible.

The Glock G40 is further evidence that Glock doesn’t like to get too comfortable. Now a 4th generation pistol, improvements keep coming to ensure that consumers are getting the very best that Glock has to offer.

Thanks to its powerful 10mm caliber, the G40 is a pistol that appeals to hunters and guarantees success in taking down deer. Its comfortable firing experience also positions the G40 as a suitable choice for competition shooting. Regardless of your motive for purchasing the G40, its versatility and affordable price make it a worthwhile investment.

One standout feature of this Glock is its polymer frame, which effectively reduces its weight without compromising its size. As someone who has owned the Glock 20 as their first handgun and continues to hold it in high regard, I can attest to its versatility. 

It accommodates lighter loads for self-defense and heavy hard-cast slugs for encounters with bears or other dangerous game, while still remaining manageable to carry. Recently, I acquired another Glock, this time for off-duty carry, and I'm thoroughly impressed with its performance.

While it takes a bit of getting used to, it unquestionably gets the job done. Personally, I'm a big fan of the 10mm for self-defense. I regularly carry my Glock 20 and 29 and plan to use the latter as a backup for boar hunting!

Of course, you don’t have to invest in sights if you don’t want to. The G40 comes with a fixed sight up front and adjustable iron sights at the rear.

Another big plus is the implementation of gas nitride in the slide’s finish. This hardening process ensures that the Glock G40 is designed to withstand extended firing and handling.

If you want a highly-durable pistol that you can count on to last, the striker-fired G40 is an excellent buy. But solid construction is one thing. How does it handle on the range?

Quite well, in fact. It’s certainly comfortable for such a big handgun. And a big part of that comfort is thanks to its customizable back strap. Grip too big or small for your hands? Need it to accommodate gloves? No problem.

With 3 different sizes available, you can choose the perfect grip for your needs. And as a lefty, I like that the mag catch can be reversed, further adding to the G40’s user-friendliness and convenience.

Shooting larger handguns can quickly lead to strained wrists and painful hands for the unprepared. Thankfully, the G40 comes equipped with dual-recoil that greatly minimizes how much recoil you feel when firing. And believe me, the G40 has its share of recoil.

The magazines hold 15 rounds each, and you get 3 of them with the pistol. As one of our highest-rated 10mm handguns, the Glock G40 is sure to serve you well. Compared to the best 10 mm handguns on the market, the G40 is an excellent investment: it performs well and won’t break the bank.

If the G40 is still a bit too rich for your blood, the Glock G20 is worth a look. You’re getting many of the same great attributes that made the G40 such an excellent buy, but with far less of the cost. 

Out of the two Glock 10mm reviews, the biggest difference that you’ll notice between them is the overall size. Whereas the G40 had a 6.02-inch barrel, the G20 measures just 4.6 inches.

A polymer frame makes a return, helping to keep the weight to a minimum, and I must say, this makes a big difference when handling the G20. For all the fellow lefties out there, you'll be pleased to know that the magazine release is reversible.

Another nice addition that has made its way to the G20 is the ability to customize the grip to your liking. This is a big deal and goes a long way in ensuring a comfortable and safe shooting experience. 10mm seems to be incredibly versatile, and I'm happy to see it becoming even more popular.

Having talked to a guy who worked at a gun shop in Alaska and sold a lot of these guns, I was told that 10mm could take down a brown bear in just 3 shots, which is truly impressive. It's very manageable and allows for quick successive shots on target.

I highly recommend it – it's lightweight, reliable, and packs a serious punch, while also being a great option for concealed carry. As for my Gen4, I applied the best upgrade I know of, including good sights, a light, and a fun class.

You get two magazines included with the Glock G20, both of which hold a total of 5 rounds. So, is this the best 10mm handgun that money can buy? Well, it depends on what your reasons are for buying it.

It’s certainly an accurate handgun, with high craftsmanship and durability on its side. And the gas nitride finish helps to ensure that the G20 can handle plenty of use.

The shorter frame is sure to appeal to lots of gun owners, too. But aside from the grip, there isn’t much here that can be customized. Still, as 10 mm handguns go, the Glock G20SF is a respectable contender that is well worth the price of admission. Certainly among the top 10mm pistols if you are on a budget.

From the moment I laid eyes on the TRP Operator, it was evident that this is a serious piece of equipment. From its 6-inch barrel to its carbon steel construction, the 10 mm 1911 Operator can be an intimidating handgun.

At over 2.6 pounds, the TRP has some weight to it. You’ll want to be fairly experienced in handling a pistol this size if you want to enjoy your time shooting it. Most 10mm pistols are hefty as it is, and the Operator is no different.

It measures nearly 10 inches in total length, so it’s not compact by any means. It’s a pretty pricey weapon, but you’re certainly getting your money’s worth, too. 

The craftsmanship that went into making the 1911 TRP Operator is in a class all by itself. In terms of quality, it’s one of the best 10mm pistols you can buy. 

It comes equipped with a 5-pound aluminum trigger that feels smooth and responsive when firing. Furthermore, I couldn’t detect any play or give during my time with the TRP on the range.

I'd go so far as to say that the Springfield Operator is quite possibly the most accurate 10mm pistol among the reviews, which is saying a lot considering the precision of other handguns in this category.

I appreciate the ability to attach accessories like red dots and sights, although the 8-round magazine capacity doesn't match up to what Glock offers in its G40 and G20 models. Nonetheless, it's still reasonable.

Furthermore, the ambidextrous safety is a big plus for me, and I'm impressed by the customization options and the top-notch quality of the grip. If you're willing to invest, Springfield's 1911 TRP Operator will undoubtedly make a fantastic addition to your arsenal.

Additionally, I've personally experienced the reliability and amazing trigger of the Springfield 1911 A1, which has never given me any issues and has a smooth pull of 2-3 lbs. Contrary to popular belief, an expensive pistol isn't necessary for reliability.

I've been the proud owner of the black TRP for a year now, and it continues to bring me joy. I've fired around 1000 rounds without encountering any problems, although I primarily use it on a range rather than for home defense or carrying purposes. As for the overall rating, it's probably your best 10mm 1911 in the premium price range.

Ruger’s SR1911 is built for control. If you’ve been on the lookout for a reasonably-priced ergonomic 10mm 1911, you will want to give this entry some serious consideration.

At 2.5 pounds, it’s a heavy handgun, to be sure. But don’t let that deter you from giving it a look. It just means that you will need to be fairly well-versed in handling guns of this size and weight.

I was pleasantly surprised by just how stable the Ruger SR1911 was in action. At no time did I find myself fighting with the pistol. It provides a smooth shooting experience on the range and is consistently reliable.

My only issue is that the trigger doesn't feel as solid as it could be, but that didn't hinder its performance. What's impressive is the price; you don't have to break the bank to protect yourself and your loved ones or enjoy hunting with the SR1911.

Ruger truly excels at producing quality and affordable 1911s. Personally, I'm eagerly awaiting some reloading supplies so I can take her out to the range and get comfortable with her.

Although it's a great pistol, I don't carry it often due to its weight. However, a little skateboard tape on the front strap made it good to go. The SR1911 is a beautiful, accurate, and reasonably priced firearm. It was the first 1911 I owned, and I love it. In fact, I shoot it better than anything else I've tried.

The Springfield Armory XDM has all the qualities of a 10mm AR pistol, but without the sticker shock. This semi-automatic shooter is great on the range and handles well. 

I did have some trouble getting accurate shots at greater distances, but by and large, it’s a solid contender. What makes this 10mm handgun stand out is its 15-round magazines.

If you're in search of an affordable yet reliable pistol that ensures you remain well-armed at all times, look no further than this exceptional firearm. What sets it apart from higher-end models like Springfield XDM Elite, is that you not only get a remarkable weapon but also three magazines included in the package.

The recoil effect of this pistol adds to its appeal, guaranteeing maximum comfort while firing. Whether you're seeking to safeguard your home without breaking the bank, the XDM is the perfect investment.

Regarded as one of the smoothest shooting handguns available, it stands alongside top contenders like the Glock 34. Both pistols offer a great deal of enjoyment due to their ease of use. 

Additionally, these guns are ideal for introducing someone to handgun shooting, thanks to their phenomenal performance. A close acquaintance of mine has the XDE, and he swears by its excellence as an everyday carry firearm.

Its comfort, ease of use, and accuracy make it an unparalleled choice. Equipped with all the necessary features and accessories, this gun delivers exceptional accuracy, making it my go-to for home defense and emergency situations.

The Colt Delta Elite is a 10mm auto that’s similar to a 1911. It’s a solid performer that hasn’t changed over the years. It sports a 5-inch barrel and a beavertail grip. 

The balancing of the Delta Elite makes it an excellent contender for home defense. And if you have children in the house, the grip safety is a big plus. 

The Delta Elite's blade trigger is a nice addition, enhancing firing comfort. Reloading is equally effortless due to the grooves in the slide.

Moreover, the build quality and construction of this pistol are superb, ensuring years of reliable service. Each magazine holds 8 rounds, and two are included with the pistol. Although the price is a bit high, its reliability is undeniable.

Personally, the Delta Elite is my favorite pistol to shoot. It feels incredibly smooth, and being a 10mm 1911 adds to its allure. It has gained popularity as a semi-auto version similar to a .41 Mag, delivering a flat trajectory and substantial impact. 

People have been praising the Delta Elite for years. I purchased mine in the '80s when Colt first introduced the 10mm, and I never found the recoil excessive. I absolutely love my Colt Delta Elite!

One enthusiast shared their experience with modifications, including a Wilson guide rod, Shock Buffs, and Night Eyes sights, which enhanced their shooting pleasure.

The Sig P220 is an excellent handgun for hunting, especially the Hunter variant designed for taking down large game. With its Kryptek Camo coating, it offers both protection and durability, ensuring you won't have to worry about corrosion or wear and tear.

The 3-lug Picatinny rail system allows for easy attachment of accessories like a red dot or sight, while field-stripping the P220 Hunter is a breeze, offering a user-friendly experience without the need for special tools.

It's no wonder why many gun enthusiasts love this weapon. Some have considered adding the Romeo 1 sight once it becomes available, but even in its current state, it is an accurate shooter.

 The P220 is often compared to the P226, which some individuals find hard to give up due to the feeling of being a champion when wielding it. 

While the grips may be a bit rough, many people who carry Sigs, like the P229 for years in law enforcement, have found them reliable and never let them down.

When it comes to the 10mm caliber, both the Sig P220 and Glock 20 are highly regarded options. While there have been some reports of hiccups with the XD, the Sig and Glock are generally considered safe choices.