Dornaus & Dixon Bren Ten Standard Model 10mm Auto, 5 inch, 1983 '83SM' Prefix, Two-Tone with Hard-Chromed Slide, DA/SA, Rare US-Made
This 1983 Dornaus & Dixon Bren Ten Standard Model is a rare, early-production example of the first production pistol chambered in 10mm Auto. It features an aftermarket hard-chromed slide over a matte silver/gray stainless frame for a striking two-tone finish. As an '83SM' serial-prefix Standard Model with a full-size 5-inch configuration and period-correct markings, it offers strong collector appeal alongside practical design details.
Built in the United States with approximately 1,500 Bren Tens produced from 1983–1986, this pistol pairs DA/SA operation with inverted slide rails, fixed 3-dot sights, and a 10+1 capacity. Dual 'BREN TEN' slide legends, a Gunsite-style bird logo, and 'MADE IN U.S.A., PAT. PEND.' markings add authenticity. Its cultural association with Miami Vice underscores the model's place in 1980s firearms history.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in great shape. There are minor and superficial scratches and blemishes present. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Sportlock hard case
- Bren Ten owner's manual with Dornaus & Dixon literature/brochure
- Tan leather shoulder holster rig with matching dual‑magazine carrier
- Two 10-round steel Bren Ten magazines
The Standard Model (SM) Bren Ten is a full-size, 5-inch, short-recoil Browning-type tilting-barrel design chambered in 10mm Auto. This example dates to 1983 and carries the '83SM' serial-prefix that aligns with early Standard Model production. With approximately 1,500 Bren Tens produced between 1983 and 1986, this is a scarce US-made pistol with documented significance as the first production handgun for the 10mm Auto cartridge.
The slide has been hard chromed (aftermarket), creating a durable, bright finish that contrasts with the matte silver/gray stainless frame for a two-tone appearance. Inverted slide rails, an external hammer, and a DA/SA action provide the mechanical layout associated with the model. Controls include a left-side push-button magazine release and an ambidextrous, frame-mounted manual safety. A lanyard ring at the butt is factory-style and period correct.
Sighting is via fixed 3-dot irons with a single-dot front blade and a two-dot rear notch. The textured black polymer grips feature Dornaus & Dixon medallions and offer secure purchase. Markings include dual 'BREN TEN' slide legends, a Gunsite-style bird logo, and 'MADE IN U.S.A., PAT. PEND.' on the pistol, consistent with its 1980s production.
Capacity is 10+1 in 10mm Auto. This pistol also carries cultural recognition through its association with Miami Vice, enhancing its interest to enthusiasts of the era and collectors of historically notable semi-autos.