CZ P10C Review: Hands on Testing

We know CZ USA for its famed hammer-fired, metal-framed handguns featuring their brilliant DA/SA triggers. However, with the P10 series, we are getting a mold-breaking polymer frame and striker-fired pistol. Today, we are reviewing the compact variant, the P10C.

I originally wrote this CZ P10 review back in August 2023 but with a few hundred rounds more, my opinions have changed slightly and therefore, I’m updating the review to match it. As someone who’s handled several striker fired pistols over the years, I had high expectations going into this gun and let me tell you if its worth the price.

CZ P10C Background – The World of CZ Polymer Frames 

The announcement of the P10C didn’t generate any excitement in me. As a former Marine, I love CZ firearms, and I love DA/SA hammer-fired actions. When CZ decided to join every other company in producing a strike-fired pistol, it generated some curiosity, but I wasn’t excited. It’s just like every other Glock clone, right? This wasn’t CZ’s first striker-fired, polymer-frame pistol. The CZ-100 came out in 1995 and didn’t impress anyone. It had a terrible trigger, weird features, and a proprietary rail. 

CZ seemed to learn their lesson and went back to the drawing board with the P10C. The P10C uses a partially cocked striker and an aggressive but modern frame design. The rail is a standard Picatinny design, and features like adjustable backstraps are present here. CZ ensured this was a true competitor in the striker-fired polymer frame market. 

The P10C was the first variant released, where C stands for compact. It’s a Glock 19-sized firearm, which makes sense. The Glock 19 has long been the most popular Glock, and the compact size is often the best compromise for shooters, concealed carriers, and home defenders. While it’s now a family of firearms, the P10C jump-started it all and has been quite successful for CZ. 

CZ P10C Features

1 Grip Stippling

Aggressive grip stippling makes recoil management easier, but can be irritating to skin for concealed carry.

2 Adjustable Backstraps

A mild palm swell and beavertail along with three interchangeable backstraps will make the gun fit many different hands

3 Magazine Release

Ambidextrous magazine release for the left handed folks out there.

4 Metal Sights

Tactical 3 dot sights made from metal allow for single handed manipulations

5 Accessory Rail

Can mount a weapon light

Models and Variations

The CZ P10 family ranges from micro sized to full sized frames and slides along with optics ready variations. There is even a competition variant.

CZ P10C Review

The P10C holds nothing back. It’s a very modern pistol. The only thing I feel mine is missing is an optic cut, but CZ makes an optics-ready model. This particular model is the P10C Sniper Grey Model. It features a few extra features. This includes suppressor height sights and a threaded barrel. 

One feature that’s universal for the P10C series is the aggressive ergonomics. The grip is stippled to the extreme, and it’s one of the most aggressive factory grips I’ve ever experienced. It clings to your hand and doesn’t seem to want to let go. It makes soaking up rapid-fire recoil quite easy. 

The design of the frame allows for a very high grip with a rear overhang that protects the hand from slide bite and allows for a high grip. The trigger guard has a nice undercut that allows for a comfortable high grip on the gun. Additionally, CZ’s slide release is one of the few that my support hand thumb doesn’t accidentally depress, even with an aggressive thumbs-forward shooting stance.

The gun is equipped with a white three-dot system with an extra photoluminescent feature on this particular model. The rear sight has a tactical racking edge, making it convenient for manipulation off a belt slide or similar scenarios. Its got great aftermarket support as it is a glock killer; it can easily fit in a glock holster and other accessories as well.

Overall, it scores well in ergonomics, but the only downside is that the aggressive grip texture can be uncomfortable against the body when carried IWB.

Ringing Steel

The gun’s ergonomics and the fact it’s a 9mm make it an easy shooter. Recoil is mild and typical, but the ability to get a nice high grip and the aggressive texturing certainly helps make it easier to shoot. You won’t feel like you’re fighting with it, even in rapid-fire sessions. 

The standard iron sights are nice, with plenty of air between the sights for a quick and effective sight picture. The trigger beats most factory triggers, hands down. It’s better than Glock, FN, and SIG. It’s smooth and to the point, with a noticeable wall and clean brake. No grit and no sponginess to be found.
This adds up to a gun that can punch out and hit a target without difficulty. Producing tight groups at 25 yards isn’t tough, and you can keep your groups under two inches easily. 

Money Well Spent 

What made me pick up a P10C was the fact it cost two Hi-Points, meaning about 300 bucks. These things go on special and sale all the time, and they seem to be one of the more affordable options out there. Even at full price, they often sell for less than five hundred dollars. 

Blast away as much as you want, and it won’t mind. I’ve owned the gun for a few years now, and it’s never tapped out. The worst I’ve seen happen is some failures to fire with steel-cased stuff. It’s likely more related to hard primers than problems with the gun. I’ve shot the gun in a class and a match and still have never cleaned it. The gun just works. 

I was wrong about the P10C. I might not have been excited about the gun, but I have found it to be an excellent handgun overall. It’s easy to shoot, accurate, sticks to your hand, and doesn’t tap out with the worst ammo. These factors led us to put it on our list of best conceal carry guns.

CZ P10C Pros and Cons 

CZ P10C Review – FAQs

Is the CZ P10C suitable for concealed carry?

Yes, the CZ P10C is considered suitable for concealed carry due to its compact size, grip angle, and overall ergonomics. It is a popular choice among those looking for a concealed carry firearm.

Can I customize the CZ P10C with aftermarket accessories?

Yes, the CZ P10C has aftermarket support, allowing users to customize their pistol. This includes options for optics cuts, different sights, and interchangeable backstraps to enhance the grip texture.

How does the CZ P10C handle recoil management?

The CZ P10C is praised for its recoil management, thanks to its extremely low bore axis. This feature contributes to accurate shooting and an overall pleasant shooting experience, making it a great choice for rapid fire.

What is the grip texture like on the CZ P10C, and can I adjust it?

The CZ P10C has an aggressive grip texture that provides a secure hold. Additionally, the pistol comes with interchangeable backstraps, allowing users to tailor the grip to their preferences.

Is the CZ P10C optics-ready?

Yes, the CZ P10C is optics-ready, making it compatible with various red dot sights. The slide is designed to accommodate these optics, offering users the option to enhance their aiming capabilities.

Is the takedown lever difficult to operate on the CZ P10C?

No, the takedown lever on the CZ P10C is user-friendly and straightforward. Once the gun is unloaded, all you need to do is slightly retract the slide and pull down on the lever to release the slide for disassembly.

CZ P10C Starter Pack

Eye Protection –Having a good set of eye protection is important for all trips to the range.

Hearing Protection – Here are our picks for best hearing protection.

Gun Cleaning Kit – Check out our favorite gun cleaning kits.

First Aid Kit – Every range kit needs a first aid kit.

Upgrades and Accessories for the CZ P10C

Here are some suggested upgrades for your CZ P10C

Upgrades and Accessories for the CZ P10C

Weapon Lights Streamlight TLR-7		Compact Light Sits Flush With Frame 500 Lumens of Light Ambidextrous Controls	Buy on Amazon
Magazines CZ P10C 9mm Gen 2 15 Round Magazine		Factory Magazine 15 Round Steel Construction	Check Price
Holster Tulster Oath IWB		Included Claw Works With Optics Ambidextrous Design Tuckable	Buy on Amazon
Red Dot Sight (For OR Models) Holosun 507C		Multi Reticles Solar Failsafe RMR Footprint	Buy on Amazon

Best Ammo for Your CZ P10C

The Federal American Eagle 9mm 124 grain matched my carry ammo closely, and I like the extra punch 124 grain has for knocking steel over at matches. From the P10C, it’s controllable and feeds perfectly. The gun certainly doesn’t mind it.

Speer Gold Dot has long been my go-to for defensive ammunition. It’s consistent, reliable, and hit shard. The rounds expand consistently and reach beyond the minimum depth for penetration. 

Other Handguns of its Class to Check Out

The Glock 19 and Walther PDP are competitive options to the CZ P10C

How to Care for Your CZ P10C

Here is a short video showing you how to field strip and re assemble your CZ P10C.

Important Links and Manuals for the CZ P10C

Check out the links below for the manufacturer’s website and operator’s manual.

• P10 Series by CZ
• CZ P10 Owner’s Manual