The CZ P-10 C (9 mm) has earned a strong reputation as a well-designed, striker-fired compact pistol. Praised for its ergonomics, crisp trigger, and competitive price, it’s become a top choice for concealed carry, duty use, and range training. As a direct competitor to the Glock 19, the P-10 C offers European engineering and excellent performance in a size that works for many shooters.

Introduction: CZ’s Entry into the Striker-Fired Market
For decades, Česká zbrojovka (CZ) was known for its hammer-fired steel pistols like the iconic CZ 75. With the launch of the P-10 series in 2017, CZ brought its signature ergonomics and build quality to the striker-fired category. The compact P-10 C was the flagship model and quickly gained traction among both professionals and civilian shooters seeking an alternative to polymer-frame staples like Glock.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9×19 mm |
| Action | Striker-fired, single-action |
| Barrel Length | 4.02″ |
| Overall Length | 7.3″ |
| Height | 5.2″ |
| Width | 1.26″ |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~26 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 15 + 1 standard (accepts 17-rd P-10 F magazines) |
| Frame | Polymer with interchangeable backstraps |
| Trigger Pull | ~4.5 lb with short, tactile reset |
| Sights | 3-dot steel sights (night-sight and optics-ready options available) |
| Finish | Polymer frame; black nitride slide |
Variants of the CZ P-10 C
- Standard P-10 C: The original compact model with 15-round magazine.
- P-10 C Optics-Ready (OR): Factory slide cut for mounting red-dot sights (RMR, DeltaPoint Pro, Holosun, etc.).
- P-10 C Suppressor-Ready (SR): Threaded barrel for muzzle devices and taller suppressor-height sights.
- P-10 C FDE / OD Green / Two-Tone: Color-finished frame variants with the same core features.

Standout Features
Ergonomics Inspired by the CZ 75
One of the strongest selling points of the P-10 C is its **natural point-of-aim** and comfortable grip shape, reminiscent of the classic CZ 75. The mild palm swell and aggressive yet comfortable grip texture make it easy to control under rapid fire.
Crisp Factory Trigger
The P-10 C’s **flat-faced trigger** breaks around 4.5 lb and features a short, audible reset. Shooters often praise it as one of the best out-of-box triggers in the striker-fired market at its price point.
Steel Sights & Durable Build
Unlike some competitors that use polymer sights, the P-10 C ships with robust steel sights for better durability. The slide’s black nitride finish offers long-term corrosion resistance.
Optics-Ready & Suppressor-Ready Options
Factory OR and SR versions simplify adding red-dot optics or muzzle devices—features once reserved for custom builds.
Recoil Management
The low bore axis and grip contour help mitigate muzzle rise, allowing quicker follow-up shots even for newer shooters.
Performance at the Range
Accuracy
The combination of a crisp trigger, low bore axis, and steel sights enables **excellent practical accuracy** for defensive and range work. Many users report tight groups at 15–25 yards right out of the box.
Reliability
The P-10 C is designed for hard use and performs well across a variety of 9 mm loads, from inexpensive range ammo to premium defensive hollow points.
Recoil Control
The pistol’s ergonomics, grip texture, and trigger contribute to fast and predictable recoil recovery—important for concealed carry and competitive shooting.
Optics & Accessory Recommendations
- Red-dot optics for OR models: Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro
- Weapon lights: SureFire X300U-B, Streamlight TLR-7A
- Holsters: Safariland ALS holsters, Blade-Tech IWB/OWB options
- Extended magazines (17-round P-10 F mags) for range or competition
- Upgraded night sights or suppressor-height sights for OR / SR configurations
Who the CZ P-10 C Is For
- Concealed-Carry Users: Compact size, excellent ergonomics, and reliable performance.
- Duty & Service Pistol Users: Trusted by some law-enforcement agencies for its durability and shootability.
- Home-Defense Owners: Easy to accessorize with lights and optics for low-light protection.
- Range & Competition Shooters: Good trigger and controllable recoil make it effective for IDPA or USPSA carry-optic divisions.
Dealer & Purchase Links
- CZ-USA Official Product Page
- Guns.com – CZ P-10 C Listings
- GrabAGun – P-10 C 9 mm
- Palmetto State Armory – P-10 C
- Bass Pro Shops – Optics-Ready P-10 C
Maintenance & Care
The P-10 C uses a Glock-style takedown system, making field-stripping fast and tool-free. Routine cleaning of the barrel, slide rails, and striker channel after range sessions will help maintain reliability and service life. Factory recoil spring assemblies generally last several thousand rounds before needing replacement.
Final Verdict: A Compact Pistol with Big-Time Value
The CZ P-10 C (9 mm) combines CZ’s legendary ergonomics with modern striker-fired simplicity. Reliable, accurate, and easy to shoot well, it has proven to be a worthy rival to other leading compact pistols. Whether for concealed carry, home defense, or range work, the P-10 C delivers performance and value that make it one of the best options in its class.
Disclaimer: Always follow all applicable laws, regulations, and safe-handling practices when purchasing or using pistols. This article is for informational purposes only.







