The XP-100 was noted for its accuracy and is still viewed as competitive today in the sport of handgun varminting, which it helped create,[1] as well as in metallic silhouette shooting.

Chambered in .222 Remington in early prototypes, the short barrel produced significant noise and muzzle flash.

[1] All but the XP-100R model were single-shot designs, while the XP-100R had a small internal magazine (holding four rounds), similar to most bolt-action rifles.

The calibers changed; with the elimination of the original 10+3⁄4 in (270 mm) barrel, the reduced powder capacity was no longer such a requirement, and the chamberings switched to standard commercial rifle cartridges.

By the time the XP-100 was canceled, it faced stiff competition from other bolt-action pistols such as the Savage Striker as well as the versatile Thompson Center Arms break-action Contender.