The 10mm first appeared in 1983 in the Bren Ten pistol, which was plagued with production problems; however, in 1987, Colt chambered the Model 1911 Delta Elite, and many other companies soon followed. Extensive testing proved the versatility and effectiveness of the cartridge; however, when its offspring, the .40 S&W was born in 1990, the popularity of the 10mm began to decline. Today it remains in production with enough dedicated fans that its future seems secure.

Although factory loads vary tremendously in pressures and performance, industry maximum average pressure is established at 37,500 psi. It is suggested to seat bullets and crimp as separate operations with a taper crimp measuring .423 inch at the mouth. Large pistol (non-magnum) primers should only be used or pressures will increase significantly.