CZ P10S Review: A Compact Powerhouse for Everyday Carry

If you’re looking for a solid, reliable, and compact handgun for concealed carry, the CZ P10S might just be the one. This pistol has been gaining popularity for its size, performance, and price. In this article, we explore everything about it — from its optic-ready models, magazines, holsters, common problems, and even a comparison with the Glock 43X.
- What Is the CZ P10S?
- CZ P10S Specs at a Glance
- Why the CZ P10S Is Popular
- CZ P10S Optic Ready: What You Need to Know
- CZ P10S Holster Options
- CZ P10S Magazine and Extensions
- CZ P10S Problems Reported by Users
- CZ P10S vs Glock 43X: Which Is Better?
- CZ P10S for Sale: What’s the Price?
- Best Accessories for CZ P10S
- Is the CZ P10S Good for Beginners?
- 5 Most Asked FAQs About CZ P10S
- Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the CZ P10S?
What Is the CZ P10S?
The CZ P10S is a subcompact 9mm striker-fired pistol made by Česká Zbrojovka (CZ), a Czech firearms company. It’s the smaller version of the CZ P10C, designed specifically for concealed carry. The “S” in the name stands for Subcompact.
It’s built with modern materials and offers reliability, accuracy, and a surprisingly good trigger pull for a pistol in its class.
CZ P10S Specs at a Glance
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Caliber | 9mm (9×19) |
Barrel Length | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
Capacity | 12+1 rounds (standard) |
Frame | Polymer |
Weight | 24.4 oz (approx.) |
Action | Striker-fired |
Sights | Fixed 3-dot metal |
Rail | Yes, for lights or lasers |
Safety | Trigger safety, firing pin block |
Also Read: Kriss Vector Mag: Complete Guide to Types, Compatibility
Why the CZ P10S Is Popular
Perfect for Concealed Carry
Its small size makes it easy to hide under clothing.Affordable
The CZ P10S is cheaper than many competitors.Reliable Performance
It’s known for feeding all kinds of 9mm ammo without problems.Comfortable Grip
Even with a short grip, the texture helps control recoil well.
CZ P10S Optic Ready: What You Need to Know
The CZ P10S Optic Ready model comes with a slide cut to mount a micro red dot sight. This is useful for people who want quicker target acquisition.
Most optic-ready models support:
Trijicon RMR
Holosun 507K/407K
Shield RMSc
It still has iron sights, but you can co-witness them with the red dot if using the right height sights.
CZ P10S Holster Options
Finding a CZ P10S holster is easy. Many manufacturers offer Kydex and leather holsters that are:
Inside-the-waistband (IWB) for concealed carry.
Outside-the-waistband (OWB) for range use or open carry.
Look for holsters that allow:
Optic clearance if you use the optic-ready model.
Retention adjustments for comfort and security.
Claw attachments to push the grip closer to your body.
CZ P10S Magazine and Extensions
The CZ P10S magazine holds 12 rounds by default. However, you can buy magazine extensions to increase capacity to:
14 rounds
15 rounds
Even 17+ rounds (with full-size mag compatibility)
Popular magazine extensions are available from:
Taylor Freelance
Hyve Technologies
CZ USA OEM parts
These extensions often add grip length too, which helps shooters with larger hands.
CZ P10S Problems Reported by Users
While the CZ-P10S is well-built, some users have reported minor issues:
Stiff Magazine Release
Especially on new guns, the mag release can be hard to press. This gets better with use.Tight Slide
The slide may feel stiff initially. A proper break-in period helps.Trigger Reset Feel
Some users say the trigger reset isn’t as tactile as a Glock or Sig.Sight Options
Fixed iron sights on standard models aren’t night sights. You’ll need to upgrade for low-light use.
These are not deal-breakers, and many users say they vanish after break-in or with minor upgrades.
CZ P10S vs Glock 43X: Which Is Better?
Feature | CZ-P10S | Glock 43X |
---|---|---|
Capacity | 12+1 (stock) | 10+1 (stock) |
Barrel Length | 3.5 inches | 3.41 inches |
Optic Ready | Yes (optional model) | Yes (MOS model) |
Trigger | Crisp with short reset | Standard Glock feel |
Grip Texture | Aggressive | Mild |
Aftermarket | Growing | Huge availability |
Price | ~$500–$600 | ~$500–$650 |
Verdict:
The CZ-P10S offers better out-of-the-box ergonomics and capacity. But the Glock 43X wins in aftermarket parts and simplicity. It comes down to personal preference.
CZ P10S for Sale: What’s the Price?
In 2025, you can usually find the CZ-P10S for sale at prices between:
$450 to $600 in the U.S.
Prices vary based on features like optic-ready slides and night sights.
Some retailers offer bundle deals with extra mags, holsters, or cleaning kits.
Check popular sites like:
Palmetto State Armory
Sportsman’s Warehouse
Guns.com
GrabAGun
CZ USA official
Also Read: Ka-Bar Knife Review 2025: Top Models & Buyer’s Guide
Best Accessories for CZ P10S
Red Dot Sights – For optic-ready versions.
Extended Magazines – Boost your ammo capacity.
Weapon Light – Mountable via the rail.
Custom Trigger Kit – Improve reset and pull weight.
Upgraded Sights – Tritium or fiber-optic night sights.
Is the CZ P10S Good for Beginners?
Yes. It’s easy to control, reliable, and not too snappy for a subcompact. It also has simple controls and is low maintenance. The trigger is easy to get used to, and the recoil is manageable even for new shooters.
5 Most Asked FAQs About CZ P10S
1. Is the CZ P10S good for concealed carry?
Yes, it’s compact, lightweight, and has good capacity for its size.
2. Does the CZ P10S come optic-ready?
Some models do. Look for CZ-P10S Optic Ready or OR in the name.
3. What holsters work with CZ P10S?
Many Kydex and leather holsters are available, especially from brands like Vedder Holsters, Tulster, and CYA Supply.
4. Can you use CZ P10C magazines in the P10S?
Yes, with a grip sleeve. This allows for higher capacity like 15 or 17 rounds.
5. Is the CZ P10S better than Glock 43X?
It depends. CZ has better grip and capacity out of the box, while Glock has more aftermarket support.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the CZ P10S?
The CZ-P10S is a fantastic choice for those who want a reliable, accurate, and comfortable handgun for concealed carry. With an optic-ready option, good trigger, and strong build quality, it competes well with other top subcompact pistols like the Glock 43X or Sig P365.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, this pistol offers solid performance and great value.