The 10mm was circling the proverbial drain for years, but it has been reinvigorated as a backcountry defense cartridge. At one time, 10mm shooters could pick from a limited variety of 1911s or choose a Glock G20 or G40. Now nearly every major manufacturer has introduced models in 10mm, which has provided reasonable, if not ideal, options for just about every shooter. We’ve tested many of these pistols as they’ve hit the market, and we’ve carried many of them in the backcountry as well. If you’re looking for a new 10mm, these are our favorites.

Sig Sauer P320 XTen Comp

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Pros

• Great ergonomics
• Soft recoiling
• Accurate
• Optic ready

Cons

• Not compatible with gas pedal takedown lever like original XTen

Specs

• Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
• Weight: 32 ounces (with empty mag, no optic)
• Optic Footprint: Delta Point Pro
• Trigger: Single-action, flat shoe, 5 pounds, 9 ounces (measured)
• Price: $930

Sig’s P320 XTen Comp is our collective favorite 10mm pistol that we have tested — and we’ve shot the hell out of a couple different samples. Through all our shooting, we’ve found it to be accurate, quick-pointing, and the softest recoiling model of the lot. That’s because of the compensated barrel.  Unlike the full-sized XTen, the Comp model isn’t compatible with the GoGun gas pedal takedown lever, which allows you to leverage your support-hand thumb for extra recoil control. It’s still a great-shooting pistol. You can read a more detailed review here. 

Glock G20 V MOS

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Pros

• Proven reliability
• Good ergonomics
• Optic ready
• Readily available magazines and accessories

Cons

• Grip is a bit blocky for some shooters

Specs

• Barrel Length: 4.61 inches
• Weight: 29.8 ounces (with empty mag, no optic)
• Optic Footprint: MOS/multiple optics
• Trigger: Single-action, safety bar, 5 pounds, 11 ounces (measured)
• Price: $620

The Glock G20 is the standard when it comes to semi-auto 10mms. For years, it was the only double-stack 10mm in common circulation and the V is even better. This is essentially the same as the Gen 5 we have tested, but with Glock’s recent revamping of their commercial line, the only 10mm they produce is this V version. It features upgrades like front and rear cocking serrations, optic compatibility, and interchangeable rear grip plates for a customized fit. Many shooters find the G20 to feel especially blocky, but it’s reliable and reasonably soft recoiling. Here is a more detailed look: Review of the G20 Gen 5 MOS. 

Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 10mm

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Pros

• Excellent ergonomics
• Not too heavy or blocky
• Optic ready
• Good iron sights

Cons

• Snappier recoil than others
• grittier trigger than other models

Specs

• Barrel Length: 4.0 inches
• Weight: 27.8 ounces (with empty mag, no optic)
• Optic Footprint: Adapter plates/multiple optics
• Trigger: Single-action, safety bar, 4 pounds, 9 ounces (measured)
• Price: $595

If you’re a fan of Smith & Wesson’s M&P line of pistols and their ergonomics, you’ll love the 10mm version. Of all the 10mm pistols we’ve tested, this has some of the very best grip contours and texture, and it’s easy to shoot well. It’s got aggressive cocking serrations, ambidextrous slide-stop levers, and good iron sights. This pistol is a bit lighter than other models, and recoil is slightly sharper, but it’s still a great choice. You can read a more detailed review here. 

Springfield XD-M Elite Compact OSP 10mm

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Pros

• Compact
• Can use 11- or 15-round magazines
• Optic ready
• Reliable

Cons

• Optics sit higher than is ideal

Specs

• Barrel Length: 3.8  inches
• Weight: 30.6 ounces (with hex optic and empty 11-round mag)
• Optic Footprint: Adapter plates/multiple optics
• Trigger: Single-action, safety bar, 4 pounds, 10 ounces (measured)
• Price: $621

Even after several years, the 10mm pistol I carry more than anything is the Springfield XD-M Elite compact. If you like 10mm and want a do-all pistol, it’s a great option. It’s small enough to appendix carry, but is great in a chest holster too. It can use either the 11-round compact magazines or sleeved 15-round mags for a full grip. It’s optic ready, but it’s honestly not the best optic mounting system. Sights with a thick base sit quite high and it takes some practice to get used to them. I wish it was cut for a sight like the Aimpoint COA, but it’s still a great 10mm pistol. You can read my full review if you’re looking for more detail.

FN 510 

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Pros

• Durable design
• Patterned after popular FN models
• Great accessory compatibility
• Largest capacity — 22 rounds

Cons

• Double-action trigger takes getting used to

Specs

• Barrel Length: 4.71 inches
• Weight: 32 ounces (with empty mag, no optic)
• Optic Footprint: Adapter plates/multiple optics
• Trigger: Double-action, 5 pounds, 13 ounces (measured)
• Price: $999

FN’s 510 tactical 10mm pistol is another solid option — especially if you’re already a fan of their handguns such as the 509. It sports a lot of the same features, including suppressor-height sights, a DPP Pro optic footprint, threaded muzzle, and double-action-only trigger. The trigger isn’t the easiest to shoot quickly and accurately, but it’s not exceptionally heavy. This pistol comes with a standard 15-round mag, as well as a large 22-round magazine. Check out a more detailed review here to learn more. 

Final Thoughts

Though some debate will always linger, the 10mm auto is a proven, practical choice for backcountry defense. In recent years there are many examples of outdoorsmen who successfully fended off grizzly bear attacks with them — some of whom we’ve interviewed. While it’s fun to compare the feature sets and details of different models, the most important thing is to pick a sidearm that you will actually carry and that you can practice with and shoot well. In the end it’s only hits the hits that count.