SMITH & WESSON 10

The Smith & Wesson 10mm series of handguns represents a powerful and versatile line of firearms designed to harness the high-energy 10mm Auto cartridge. Whether for self-defense, duty use, hunting, or recreational shooting, these pistols offer exceptional stopping power, precision engineering, and modern enhancbents that make them stand out in the increasingly competitive handgun market.

The 10mm Auto cartridge was originally designed to provide higher velocity, greater energy, and better ballistic performance than traditional handgun calibers such as the .45 ACP and 9mm. With its superior penetration, flat trajectory, and hard-hitting impact, the 10mm has seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly among law enforcement agencies, hunters, and backcountry enthusiasts who need a reliable sidearm against large predators.

Smith & Wesson, a trusted name in the firearms industry, has capitalized on this growing demand by introducing a line of 10mm pistols that combine modern polymer-frame durability, optics-ready designs, enhanced grip ergonomics, and high-capacity magazines. In this review, we will explore the history, design, features, performance, and applications of the Smith & Wesson 10mm handguns to help shooters determine whether this powerhouse pistol is the right choice for them.

The History of the 10mm Auto Cartridge and Smith & Wesson’s Involvement

The Birth of the 10mm Auto

The 10mm Auto cartridge was developed in the early 1980s by Norma Precision in collaboration with Col. Jeff Cooper, a renowned firearms expert. The goal was to create a cartridge that could offer greater muzzle energy and velocity than the .45 ACP, while maintaining a flatter trajectory and improved penetration.

In 1983, the Bren Ten was introduced as the first pistol chambered in 10mm Auto. However, due to production issues and high costs, the Bren Ten failed to gain widespread adoption. Despite this, the FBI took interest in the 10mm in the late 1980s after the infamous 1986 Miami shootout, where agents found their 9mm and .38 Special handguns lacking in stopping power. The FBI’s adoption of the Smith & Wesson Model 1076 led to brief success for the caliber, but recoil concerns resulted in the development of the weaker .40 S&W, which soon replaced the 10mm in law enforcement circles.

However, with advancements in handgun technology and the rising interest in powerful defensive calibers, the 10mm has made a major comeback in recent years. Smith & Wesson, recognizing the potential of the round, has introduced several modern 10mm handguns built for law enforcement, military, hunters, and civilian shooters.

Smith & Wesson’s 10mm Handgun Lineup

Smith & Wesson offers several models chambered in 10mm Auto, combining modern materials, ergonomic enhancements, and performance-driven designs. These models include:

1. Smith & Wesson M&P 10mm M2.0
2. Smith & Wesson 1006 (Classic Model)
3. Smith & Wesson Model 1076 (Used by the FBI in the late 1980s)
4. Smith & Wesson Performance Center 10mm Variants

Each of these models offers unique advantages, catering to different user needs, from tactical applications to backcountry defense.

Design and Features of the Smith & Wesson 10mm Pistols

Frame and Construction

The modern Smith & Wesson M&P 10mm M2.0 is built on a polymer frame, making it lighter, more durable, and resistant to corrosion compared to traditional metal-framed handguns.

• Polymer Frame with Reinforced Steel Chassis: Offers durability without excessive weight.
• Aggressive Grip Texture: Ensures a secure hold in all conditions, even when wet.
• Interchangeable Grip Inserts: Provides customization for different hand sizes.
• Extended Beavertail Design: Reduces felt recoil and improves control.

Slide and Barrel

• Stainless Steel Slide with Armornite Finish: Protects against rust, corrosion, and wear.
• Extended Barrel Length (4.6″ – 5.6″): Improves velocity and accuracy.
• Optics-Ready Cut: Compatible with red dot sights for improved aiming.
• Suppressor-Ready Variants Available: Threaded barrels for suppressor attachment.

Trigger and Safety Features

• Flat-Faced Trigger: Enhances consistency and control.
• Short Reset Trigger System: Allows for quicker follow-up shots.
• Ambidextrous Controls: Suitable for left- and right-handed shooters.
• Manual Thumb Safety Available in Some Models.

Magazine Capacity

• 15+1 or 16+1 Rounds in Standard Models: Provides greater capacity than traditional .45 ACP pistols.
• Extended Magazines Available: For those needing additional firepower.

Performance and Shooting Experience

Recoil Management

While 10mm Auto produces higher recoil than 9mm and .40 S&W, Smith & Wesson has designed its M&P 10mm pistols with features that mitigate felt recoil and muzzle flip:

• Low Bore Axis: Reduces recoil impulse for faster follow-up shots.
• Heavier Slide Mass: Helps absorb energy from the high-pressure round.
• Ergonomic Grip Design: Distributes force evenly across the shooter’s hand.

Accuracy and Precision

Smith & Wesson’s match-grade barrels and crisp trigger pull contribute to exceptional accuracy, making the M&P 10mm ideal for both self-defense and long-range shooting.

Reliability

Smith & Wesson’s rigorous testing ensures that their 10mm handguns function reliably under extreme conditions. The M&P 10mm has been tested with various bullet weights and pressures, handling both full-power and reduced-power loads effectively.

Real-World Applications of the Smith & Wesson 10mm

Self-Defense and Duty Use

The 10mm Auto cartridge is known for its stopping power, making Smith & Wesson’s 10mm handguns an excellent choice for home defense and law enforcement use.

• Superior Penetration: Effective against barriers and tough clothing layers.
• High Capacity: Outmatches traditional .45 ACP duty pistols.
• Optics-Ready Design: Enhances defensive shooting capabilities.

Hunting and Backcountry Protection

For hunters and outdoorsmen, a Smith & Wesson 10mm offers reliable protection against large game and predators such as bears, wild boars, and cougars.

• Powerful 10mm Loadings Available: Capable of taking down mid-sized game.
• Portable and Lightweight Alternative to a Rifle.

Competition Shooting

With its high velocity, flat trajectory, and manageable recoil, the M&P 10mm is a solid choice for competitive shooting in divisions that allow major power factor calibers.