Smith & Wesson Model 1026

About the Smith & Wesson Model 1026

The Smith & Wesson Model 1026 is a full-size, third-generation 10mm Auto pistol featuring a frame-mounted decocker-only configuration, introduced in 1990 alongside the Model 1006. Unlike the 1006's slide-mounted combination decocker/safety lever, the 1026 features a frame-mounted decocker lever with no manual safety function, allowing the pistol to be carried safely in double-action mode and decocked without engaging a safety. This design philosophy, similar to contemporary SIG Sauer and Beretta DA/SA pistols, was preferred by law enforcement agencies who wanted to eliminate the potential for officers to leave manual safeties engaged during critical incidents. Built on the same robust large stainless steel frame as the 1006 with identical 5-inch barrel, 9-round single-stack magazine, and all-stainless construction, the 1026 maintained the power and accuracy of full-power 10mm Auto while offering a simpler manual of arms. The frame-mounted decocker lever falls readily under the thumb for intuitive operation, and the absence of a slide-mounted control reduces potential snagging during the draw.

The 1026's decocker-only configuration was designed for agencies that wanted their officers to never have to remember whether a safety was on or off. In the stress of a gunfight, the thinking went, having one less control to manipulate could save lives-though critics argued that proper training made manual safeties a non-issue.

Smith & Wesson Model 1026 specifications

The Model 1026 represents Smith & Wesson's attempt to offer different control configurations to appeal to various law enforcement preferences during the brief 10mm adoption window. The decocker-only design was inspired by successful European pistols like the SIG P226 and Beretta 92D, which had proven popular with American agencies. The frame-mounted decocker position is considered by many shooters to be more ergonomic than slide-mounted controls, falling naturally under the shooting-hand thumb. Part of the limited production run of S&W 10mm pistols that totaled approximately 50,796 units across all six variants. The 1026 is among the rarer variants in the Smith & Wesson 10mm lineup, making it highly sought after by collectors today. Like all third-generation Smith & Wesson autos, the 1026 featured the distinctive curved backstrap and wrap-around Xenoy grips designed to improve handling and reduce felt recoil.