Top 5 Striker Fired Pistols That Aren't Glocks

Why Look Beyond Glock for Striker-Fired Pistols

The discussion opens with a shooter looking for a striker-fired pistol but wanting something other than a Glock. Complaints include Glock’s grip angle, difficulty reaching the magazine release, and dissatisfaction with the factory iron sights, along with the cost of upgrades to reach a preferred configuration. The hosts acknowledge Glock’s dominance in the striker-fired market and its reputation for simplicity and reliability, but they emphasize that many other striker-fired pistols are widely used by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters. They set out to highlight five non-Glock striker-fired pistols that are broadly adopted, reliable, and available at reasonable price points, focusing on real-world use rather than personal brand loyalty.

Springfield Armory Echelon: Modular Duty Pistol

Number five on the list is the Springfield Armory Echelon. It uses a modular fire control unit, referred to as the central operating group, that can be removed and placed into different grip modules. The pistol is described as a duty-focused design with durability and combat use in mind, and the hosts note they have multiple examples that have run reliably. Early drawbacks included limited aftermarket support and issues with extended magazines where baseplates could separate, though Springfield has since improved those magazines. A standout feature is the optics mounting system that uses interchangeable pins or support rods, allowing most modern red dot optics to mount directly without separate plates. The Echelon line has expanded with a 4-inch model and a compact version, and the hosts feel Springfield is continuing to refine the platform.

SIG Sauer P320: Modular Service Pistol

In the number four spot, the SIG Sauer P320 is highlighted, with the P365 mentioned alongside it. The P320 is credited as one of the early pioneers of modular striker-fired designs, using a removable chassis that can be placed into different grip modules and configurations. One host notes that the P320 is among the pistols he shoots best and describes it as ergonomic and accurate. They acknowledge ongoing public controversy surrounding the platform but emphasize that their personal pistols, including an early-generation P320 with roughly 17,000 rounds, have not exhibited problems. The P320 family includes the M17 and M18 service pistols adopted by branches of the U.S. military and is also used by various police agencies and the Australian military. The platform supports numerous variants, including configurations built around the P320 chassis such as those from Flux Defense.

SIG Sauer P365 Series and XMacro

The conversation shifts to the SIG Sauer P365 series, described as one of the most popular concealed carry-focused pistols available. The hosts state that the P365 is a top seller in its role, driven by its modularity and the features provided from the factory. Many models are optic-ready, offer integrated compensators on certain versions, and come with upgraded sights and a well-regarded trigger. Capacity is repeatedly emphasized, with examples like a configuration offering 17+1 rounds in a slim package under about an inch in width. The P365 XMacro is credited with changing expectations for concealed carry pistols by combining compact dimensions with higher capacity compared to older micro pistols with 6- or 10-round magazines. Aftermarket support for both P320 and P365 platforms is extensive, with companies such as Acarus Precision, Mischief Machine, and ECM Precision producing metal grip modules, flared magwells, and other components, including aluminum chassis systems that can be customized in various finishes.

CZ P-10 Series: Ergonomics and Trigger Performance

Number three is the CZ P-10 series, including the P-10 F, P-10 C, and ported or compensated variants. The hosts describe CZ as producing well-made, affordable firearms and mention visiting the CZ facility in the Czech Republic to see manufacturing firsthand. The P-10 series had already been rated highly by them in previous striker-fired comparisons, with one host calling it a 10 out of 10. They praise the pistol’s ergonomics, noting that the grip shape and texture provide a secure, confident hold. The trigger is highlighted as a strong point across both competition-oriented and standard models. The pistols are optics-ready and feature a low bore axis that contributes to controllable recoil and reduces the likelihood of slide bite. The lineup includes the P-10 C and a ported model with an integrated compensator, and the hosts expect CZ to continue advancing its polymer pistol offerings, possibly in pursuit of additional contracts.

Smith & Wesson M&P Lineup Overview

In the number two position, the Smith & Wesson M&P series is introduced, including standard models, compensated versions, metal-framed variants, and the 5-inch M&P Competitor. The hosts describe the Competitor as an underrated option within the lineup. Across the series, they note strong trigger performance, generous capacity, and aggressive grip texture that makes it obvious when the pistol is firmly seated in the hand, even if it can be abrasive enough to require some care after extended shooting. The M&P line, originally named for military and police use, is described as one of the most widely used striker-fired families from Smith & Wesson. One host recalls being issued a first-generation M&P .40 with a hinged trigger during duty service and comments that, despite disliking that specific trigger design, the pistol functioned well, particularly in cold weather conditions.