During the trials, the 10mm was found to be comparable to the .45 ACP, but the 10mm was found to take up less space and produce shot groups on targets that were half the size.
TL;DR: We tested 12 of the best 10mm pistols across 500 rounds of mixed ammo on seven criteria — 25-yard accuracy, reliability with full-power loads, trigger, slide-to-frame fit, bear-country ergonomics, optics-ready compatibility, and street price.
12 Best 10mm Pistols (2026): Tested and Ranked - USA Gun Shop
In this list we give you our pick for the best 10mm handguns available today. From polymer workhorses to steel classics, long slides built for the hunt to optics‑ready carry guns, you’ll see exactly what belongs on your belt, in your nightstand, or in your pack.
Today, the 10mm cartridge is making a comeback as hunting enthusiasts use it to hunt wild boar, bears, deer, and everything in between. The 10mm Auto is among the most powerful handgun cartridges commonly chambered in semi-automatic handguns.
10mm handguns are relatively versatile in their usefulness due to the several different styles and sizes that are now available. Boasting significantly more power than 9mm, 10mm is capable of putting down grizzly bears, bandits and everything in between.
There are a lot of 10mm pistols on the market now, but some are better than others. We've tested lots, but these are our favorites.
The 10mm semi-auto has quietly taken the forefront in pistol design. Preferred by law enforcement over the 9mm for its higher velocity, greater range, and much greater energy, the 10mm is often the choice when police and sheriff departments go through a weapon replacement cycle.