In the diverse world of self-defense sidearms, while the 9mm pistols have traditionally held the spotlight, the 10mm variant is carving out a distinctive niche for itself. But what makes the 10mm stand out, and is it the right choice for you?
In particular, for those venturing into the wild or residing in the backcountry, the 10mm presents a compelling proposition. Not only does it provide enough power to deter animal threats – think mountain lions or even Alaskan bears – but it’s also versatile for hunting pursuits.
Unlike the more common .357, it’s easier to carry, and in terms of raw power, the 10mm is unparalleled among semi-auto cartridges that can fit comfortably into a service pistol-sized frame.
However, considering the 10mm shouldn’t just be about sheer power. When it comes to accuracy, 1911s chambered in 10mm are top contenders, offering up manageable recoil and pinpoint precision in a classic package.
With 1911s it’s essential to note their maintenance requirements, especially in rugged environments, so if that’s your use case, polymer-framed 10mm pistols marry durability with a lighter weight, making them durable companions for those treks into the wilderness. Their additional ammo capacity and ease of use in even miserable conditions further elevate their backcountry appeal.
The smaller 9mm is certainly more approachable than pistols chambered in 10mm Auto, so selecting the ideal 10mm requires careful consideration. We’ve gotten our hands on dozens of 10mm pistols over the years, both at Shot Shows and local range sessions, all with one quest: identify the best 10mm pistols tailored for real-world scenarios, from wilderness adventures to home defense.
Dive in as we present firsthand insights, highlight critical factors like red-dot sights and optimal ammunition choices, and guide you in harnessing the true potential of the mighty 10mm.
By Michael Crites
Michael Crites has served as executive editor of AmericanFirearms.org since 2016 and previously held positions as associate editor and range correspondent dating back to 2000. He discovered his passion for precision shooting at age 12 during his first visit to his grandfather's shooting range, eventually earning an Expert classification in three different shooting disciplines before age 18.
During his studies at University of Wyoming, he earned four varsity letters on the collegiate rifle and pistol teams, serving as team captain for three consecutive years. He became the first UW student to complete the NRA Range Safety Officer certification while maintaining full-time student status. He graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in Sports Communications.
His diverse career has included roles as Range Safety Coordinator for the National Rifle Championships in Camp Perry 2001; editor-in-chief, Precision Shooter Quarterly; series editor, Modern Firearms Handbook collection; managing editor, National Shooting Sports Foundation Newsletter; editor, Competitive Shooter Magazine; operations director for Western Arms & Ammunition Co.; senior editor for the Shooter's Reference Annual (Cheyenne); content director for The Firearms Report, published by the American Shooting Coalition in Billings, MT; firearms correspondent for Hunting & Shooting, produced by Outdoor Sports Media Group in Jackson, WY; and publisher for Wyoming Shooting Sports Journal in Casper. He has contributed as a regular columnist for American Rifleman (NRA Publications), technical editor for Precision, a publication of the National Bench Rest Shooters Association (Phoenix, AZ); and as firearms specialist for the Gun Owner's Annual.
As a digital content creator, he has written more than 400 articles on AmericanFirearms.org, developed shooting technique coverage for the Brownells Shooting Blog (Montezuma, IA) and Federal Premium "Range Notes" platform (Anoka, MN), and served as lead content strategist for International Defensive Pistol Association (Berryville, AR). Beyond Tactical Firearms, his current endeavors include content development for the Wyoming State Rifle Association (Cheyenne, WY) and technical manual production for High Plains Publishing of Laramie, WY.
He has contributed to the 12th, 13th, and 14th editions of Modern Sporting Rifles Guide and edited The Complete Guide to Tactical Shooting and Competitive Shooter's Reference Manual (Gun Digest Books).
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