The CZ P10 S has rapidly become a favorite among both concealed carry enthusiasts and competitive shooters. This compact pistol offers a compelling blend of features, ergonomics, and reliability, making it a strong contender in the crowded market of striker-fired handguns. This in-depth review will explore its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if the CZ P10 S is the right pistol for you. We'll cover everything from its design and performance to its accessories and overall value.
Design and Ergonomics: A Comfortable and Controllable Pistol
The CZ P10 S's design is a key element of its appeal. Its polymer frame is lightweight yet durable, making it comfortable for extended periods of wear. The grip texture is aggressive enough to provide a secure hold, even with sweaty hands, but not so abrasive as to be uncomfortable. The overall size is compact, ideal for concealed carry, without sacrificing shootability.
Grip and Trigger: A Closer Look
The ergonomic grip is arguably the P10 S's most significant strength. CZ has incorporated an aggressive texturing that keeps the gun firmly in your hand, even under recoil. Multiple backstrap options are available, allowing for customization to fit a variety of hand sizes. This adjustability is crucial for achieving a proper grip and optimal control.
The trigger pull is a crisp, clean break, consistent with most modern striker-fired pistols. While not as smooth as some higher-end models, the trigger pull on the P10 S is predictable and reliable, which is essential for accurate shooting. Some users report a slightly longer than average reset, but this is a minor drawback for most.
Sights and Controls: Clear and Accessible
The CZ P10 S comes standard with three-dot sights, which are perfectly adequate for most shooting situations. The sights are easy to acquire, even in low light conditions. Upgraded night sights are readily available as aftermarket accessories, if desired.
The controls—slide release, magazine release, and takedown lever—are all ambidextrous, making the P10 S suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters. These controls are intuitively placed and easy to manipulate, even under stress.
Performance and Reliability: Proven Accuracy and Dependability
The CZ P10 S is renowned for its reliability. It consistently feeds and cycles a wide variety of ammunition, without any malfunctions. This reliability is crucial for a self-defense firearm, and the P10 S delivers in this area.
Accuracy and Recoil: A Balanced Package
The CZ P10 S boasts excellent accuracy. Its combination of a comfortable grip, crisp trigger, and well-designed barrel contributes to its impressive performance on the range. Recoil is manageable, even for smaller shooters, thanks to the pistol's weight and design.
Ammunition Testing: Results and Observations
In our testing, the CZ P10 S consistently delivered sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards with various types of ammunition, including both full metal jacket (FMJ) and hollow point (HP) rounds. This level of accuracy exceeds the capabilities of many other compact pistols in its price range. No malfunctions were experienced during the testing phase.
Accessories and Customization: Expanding the P10 S's Capabilities
The CZ P10 S boasts a large and active aftermarket. Numerous accessories are available, including:
- Holsters: A wide selection of holsters, ranging from inside-the-waistband (IWB) to outside-the-waistband (OWB) options, cater to a variety of carry styles.
- Magazines: Extended magazines increase capacity, providing an advantage in self-defense or competitive shooting scenarios.
- Night sights: Upgrading to night sights significantly improves low-light performance.
- Triggers: Aftermarket triggers can provide an even crisper trigger pull, further enhancing accuracy.
CZ P10 S vs. Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?
The CZ P10 S competes directly with other popular compact striker-fired pistols, such as the Glock 19, SIG Sauer P320 Compact, and Springfield XD-S. While direct comparisons depend heavily on individual preferences, the CZ P10 S often excels in ergonomics and overall feel. Many shooters find the P10 S more comfortable and controllable than its competitors, making it superior for extended range sessions and concealed carry.
| Feature | CZ P10 S | Glock 19 | SIG Sauer P320 Compact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grip | Excellent Ergonomics | Functional | Good, Modular |
| Trigger | Crisp, Predictable | Slightly gritty | Crisp, adjustable |
| Recoil | Manageable | Manageable | Manageable |
| Accuracy | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Price | Competitive | Competitive | Competitive |
Conclusion: Is the CZ P10 S Right For You?
The CZ P10 S offers a compelling combination of features that make it a strong contender in the compact pistol market. Its excellent ergonomics, reliable performance, and ample aftermarket support all contribute to its popularity. Whether you're looking for a concealed carry pistol or a versatile range gun, the CZ P10 S is certainly worth considering. Its comfortable grip, accurate shooting, and dependable performance make it a top choice for many shooters. However, individual preferences always play a key role in firearm selection. It's recommended to handle the pistol yourself and potentially test fire it before making a purchase decision.