Handgun
Palmetto State Armory Dagger
Glock 19-class · semi-auto striker-fired pistol
Price pending
Prices pending
Caliber9mm
Capacity15+1 (Compact; Full Size is 17+1)
Barrel3.9 in (Compact stainless, DLC-coated)
SystemStriker-fired, semi-auto polymer frame
SightsFactory white-dot or suppressor-height options; co-witness or optics-ready slides available
RailPicatinny (proprietary profile, Glock-compatible with caveats)
Weight~22.4 oz unloaded
Overall Length7.15 in
Frame SizeCompact (similar to Glock 19)
VariantsMicro (RMSc cut, 10-round compact frame), Compact (RMR/Doctor cut, 15-round), Full Size (RMR cut, 17-round, G17-length frame)
Build it out
Start with an optics-ready Compact or Full Size model, pair with a Holosun 507C X2 red dot, add a TLR-1 HL light and a Dagger-specific IWB holster, and trust the platform—then upgrade sights or trigger only if you want competition-level performance.
Pick one option per slot — the total updates as you go.
Optic Holosun 507C X2
Weapon Light Streamlight TLR-1 HL
Trigger optional Skip Trigger
Holster Alien Gear Cloak Tuck IWB
Magazines Magpul PMAG GL9 15-round
Overview
The PSA Dagger is a budget-friendly, Glock 19–compatible striker-fired 9mm that delivers reliability and modern ergonomics far above its sub-$350 price point, earning consistent 4.5–5/5 ratings from reviewers in 2024–2025.
Who it's for: First-time handgun buyers, budget-conscious concealed-carry shooters, range enthusiasts, and home-defense users who want a proven platform with excellent aftermarket support.
Pros
- Exceptional value: sub-$350 base price with optics-ready and threaded-barrel options under $400
- Proven reliability: 3000+ round tests show zero failures after minimal break-in; strong reputations from Pew Pew Tactical, Gun University, and Honest Outlaw
- Superior ergonomics: grip angle, aggressive texturing, extended beavertail, and undercut trigger guard exceed stock Glock 19 comfort
- Optics-ready slides (RMR or RMSc footprint) with factory co-witnessing sights on many models
- Gen 3 Glock compatibility: accepts Glock magazines, many aftermarket triggers, sights, and lights; enormous aftermarket ecosystem
Cons
- Extreme Carry Cuts on the slide affect holster retention—Dagger-specific holsters or careful fit testing recommended; not all Glock 19 holsters retain equally
- Rail profile differs subtly from Glock 19; some weapon lights (e.g., Streamlight TLR-7 Sub) may require specific rail keys
- Earlier production runs had firing-pin inconsistencies—current (2024+) generation has largely resolved these; verify serial and test ammo variety
- Stock trigger is serviceable but not flat-faced; some shooters upgrade to ZEV or similar aftermarket triggers for competition use
What to look for
- Verify your slide's optic cut (RMR, RMSc, or Doctor/Venom footprint) before ordering an optic—it determines which red dots mount directly
- Buy or confirm a Dagger-specific holster for best retention; if using a Glock 19 mold, dry-fire retention test first
- Test your first 200 rounds with multiple ammo types (Federal, Blazer, Hornady) to verify reliability; current production is solid but variety matters
- Weapon-light fitment: confirm your model accepts TLR-1/X300 keys or order TLR-7/TLR-8 with appropriate rail keys for compact models
- Consider suppressor-height sights (standard on many current builds) for lower-1/3 red-dot co-witness—factory standard-height sights sit at optic height on many models