I’m always on the lookout for new handguns to shoot and review and I’m always a sucker for good value.
My recent acquisition, the PSA Dagger Compact 9mm Pistol with Extreme Carry Cut Doctor Slide, Threaded Barrel, & Vortex Venom 6MOA Red Dot, in an awesome 2-tone Sniper Green finish (I know this is a mouthful), is one of those finds.
Before we get started, because folks always try to ‘call me out’…I’m not getting paid to review this weapon and I didn’t get it for free. As always, this is my unbiased review and personal opinion.
Also, it’s worth mentioning, this will be a 2-part review. There is too much information for me to convey in one post so I’m breaking it up.
The first post will be about the specific details and my overall thoughts on the platform. The second post will be about performance and all things shooting.
I wanted to shoot at least one case of ammunition through it before completing that post and I will be releasing it soon.
Now, on to the details.
First, this compact 9mm pistol is not only visually impressive with its Sniper Green finish but also packed with features that make it a great choice for concealed carry and self-defense.
The included Vortex Venom 6MOA Red Dot Optic offers quick target acquisition, while the Extreme Carry Cut Doctor Slide and Threaded Barrel allow for easy customization to suit each user’s preferences.
As a bonus, the PSA Dagger also provides peace of mind with reliable performance and extremely affordable pricing.
Also, as a Glock 19 Gen 3 clone, the PSA Dagger exhibits familiar ergonomics and functions that make it easy for seasoned shooters and newcomers alike to appreciate its potential.
Overview of the PSA Dagger Compact
Key Features
This particular variant features a two-tone Sniper Green color scheme, offering a nice change from standard issue black.
One of the highlights of this pistol is the Extreme Carry Cut Doctor Slide, equipped with a Vortex Venom 6MOA red dot, which enhances accuracy and target acquisition.
Additionally, the PSA Dagger Compact comes with a threaded barrel, allowing for easy customization and the attachment of various accessories, such as suppressors.
These features come at a very competitive price, making it a great value for money.
Design and Aesthetics
As I mentioned earlier, the PSA Dagger Compact is a stylish firearm boasting a Sniper Green two-tone finish that sets it apart from the competition.
The use of high-quality stainless steel and advanced polymers for the construction ensures durability without compromising on aesthetics.
Moreover, its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip and user-friendly experience, catering to both first-time and experienced users.
I appreciate the polymer frame’s lightweight nature, making it easy to carry around without causing fatigue. Being a compact handgun, it is perfect for concealed carry and personal protection purposes.
Specifications
Caliber and Barrel
The PSA Dagger Compact 9mm Pistol comes chambered in 9mm caliber which is more than sufficient for all intended purposes.
This pistol features a threaded barrel with a length of 4.5 inches, made of stainless steel, and coated with a DLC finish for durability.
The barrel has a twist rate of SAAMI Spec 1:10, which is suitable for various types of ammunition.
Size and Weight
When it comes to size and weight, the PSA Dagger Compact has an overall length of 7.65 inches, an overall width of 1.28 inches, and an overall height of 4.78 inches (without the magazine). This makes the pistol compact and suitable for concealed carry.
The weight of the handgun is 22.4 ounces when unloaded, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
Capacity and Action
The PSA Dagger Compact 9mm Pistol has a striker-fired action which contributes to a consistent trigger pull. For newcomers, this type of action is commonly found in many modern, reliable handguns.
In terms of capacity, I received one 15-round magazine, providing a good balance between firepower and ease of concealment.
Ergonomics and Safety
Grip and Handling
I appreciate the ergonomics of the PSA Dagger. The grip design ensures a comfortable and secure hold even during extended shooting sessions (more on that in the next post).
The grip angle feels natural, allowing for adequate control and accuracy. Its well-rounded edges eliminate any discomfort while maintaining a secure grip.
Moreover, the texture on the grip provides adequate friction, preventing slipping even with sweaty hands. As for the trigger guard, it offers ample room to accommodate gloved hands.
The trigger itself has a decent break, which contributes to better handling and accuracy. It’s not a competition trigger by any stretch, but it is sufficient for its intended purpose.
Built-in Safety Features
In terms of safety, this pistol has standard built-in features.
The first is the trigger safety, which prevents the gun from accidentally discharging if dropped or if the trigger is inadvertently bumped.
Additionally, the pistol has a striker block safety that prevents the striker from moving forward and firing the gun unless the trigger is fully depressed.
This means that even if the gun is dropped or mishandled, the risk of a negligent discharge is significantly reduced.
Optics and Custom Features
Red Dot and Carry Cut
The included Vortex Venom 6MOA Red Dot is a fantastic addition to this pistol, providing quick target acquisition for both target shooting and self-defense.
The red dot is mounted on the custom-machined Extreme Carry Cut slide, which not only looks great but also provides enhanced grip, making slide manipulation easier even under high-stress situations.
Threaded Barrel
As mentioned above, a noteworthy feature of the PSA Dagger Compact 9mm Pistol is the threaded barrel, which opens up customization possibilities.
The threaded barrel allows for the easy attachment of suppressors, compensators, and muzzle brakes so that you can fine-tune this pistol based on preferences and needs.
With the combination of the Vortex Venom 6MOA Red Dot, Extreme Carry Cut slide, and threaded barrel, the PSA Dagger Compact 9mm Pistol truly stands out as an adaptable and customizable firearm.
The attention to detail and user-friendly design show that Palmetto State Armory has put a lot of thought into creating a pistol that fits the needs of a wide range of shooters at an excellent price point.
Durability and Warranty
Warranty Details
I appreciate that PSA stands behind its product by offering a full lifetime warranty on the Dagger Compact, as well as all its firearms.
This warranty coverage not only instills confidence in the durability of the pistol but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect from this warranty:
- Full lifetime warranty
- Covers both materials and workmanship
- Valid for the original owner
I think this warranty is a great addition to the PSA Dagger Compact and can put your mind at ease when considering the purchase of this handgun.
Comparisons and Alternatives
When looking at the PSA Dagger Compact 9mm Pistol it’s helpful to compare it to other popular firearms like the Glock G19.
As a shooter, I hold the G19 in high regard considering its reputation, reliability, and performance. Heck, I carried one a long time, both professionally and as a civilian.
However, you can’t argue that the PSA Dagger offers its own set of impressive features at a more affordable price.
First off, both the PSA Dagger and Glock G19 are striker-fired, polymer frame pistols. This makes them lightweight and easy to manage while still maintaining durability.
One point to note is that the PSA Dagger is essentially a Glock Gen 3 clone, meaning it shares many similarities with the G19 but manages to add a few improvements.
In terms of customizability, the PSA Dagger shows its versatility by offering an optics cut, a threaded barrel, and suppressor height sights – all while costing around $500 with all the bells and whistles, including red dot optic.
This provides a ton of value for any shooter looking to invest in a reliable, modern pistol.
Now, let’s look at a side-by-side of some key differences and alternatives:
| Feature | PSA Dagger Compact | Glock G19 Gen3 |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Price | $500’ish (with additional features) | Around $500 (basic model) |
| Design | Glock Gen 3 clone | Original Glock design |
| Included Optics | Vortex Venom 6MOA Red Dot | None |
| Threaded Barrel | Yes | No (unless purchased separately) |
| Suppressor Height Sights | Yes | No (unless purchased separately) |
| Customizability | High | High |
So, as you can see, the PSA Dagger Compact offers a lot of great features that often require additional purchases or upgrades on a Glock G19.
In my opinion, this pistol provides shooters with an attractive alternative to the Glock.
Consumer Advice
Let’s take a look at a few things to help you make an informed decision on whether this handgun is the right choice for you.
From my experience, the Dagger Compact is an affordable semi-auto 9mm pistol that’s perfect for those looking for an alternative to the more expensive Glock models.
Boasting a competitive price point, the PSA Dagger doesn’t compromise on quality, making it a great option for those who are budget-conscious but still looking to invest in a quality handgun.
One of the standout features of this particular pistol is its Doctor Cut footprint for compatibility with like reflex sights
Additionally, the sniper green finish adds a touch of style that sets it apart from other handguns on the market.
In terms of functionality and usability, the Dagger Compact comes equipped with a threaded barrel, allowing for easy attachment of suppressors or other muzzle devices.
Here are some key features of the PSA Dagger Compact:
- 9mm semi-auto pistol
- Extreme Carry Cut Doctor Slide
- Threaded Barrel
- Suppressor Sights
- Vortex Venom 6MOA Red Dot
- 2-Tone Sniper Green finish
For new gun owners or those potentially purchasing a Dagger Compact for personal defense, you can have peace of mind knowing that Palmetto State Armory has a solid reputation for producing reliable firearms with lasting serviceable lifetimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of the Extreme Carry Cut on the PSA Dagger?
The Extreme Carry Cut (ECC) on the PSA Dagger offers a sleek, lightweight design that makes it easier to carry concealed. This feature includes reduced slide and grip width to reduce the overall print when carrying, making it more discreet. Additionally, ECC models usually come with other enhancements like front and rear slide serrations for easier slide manipulation and an improved grip texture for better control during shooting sessions.
Can the Vortex Venom red dot be seamlessly installed on the PSA Dagger models?
Yes, the Vortex Venom red dot can be seamlessly installed on the PSA Dagger models. Many Dagger models come with a compatible slide cut and mounting plate specifically designed for this red dot sight, ensuring a secure and stable installation. It’s important to note that not all Dagger models include this feature, so make sure to verify if the specific model you’re interested in comes with the necessary mounting hardware.
How does the PSA Dagger Compact compare to the Glock in terms of performance and reliability?
The PSA Dagger Compact is often compared to the Glock 19 due to its similar size and design. In terms of performance and reliability, the PSA Dagger has received positive reviews from users and professionals alike. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that individual experiences may vary, and it’s recommended to test any firearm personally before making that decision.
What are the color options available for the PSA Dagger, and is Sniper Green a popular choice?
At the time of this writing, the color options available for the PSA Dagger include black, flat dark earth (FDE), and sniper green.
Are there any special maintenance tips for the PSA Dagger with a threaded barrel and red dot sight?
Maintaining the PSA Dagger with a threaded barrel and red dot sight is quite similar to maintaining any other firearm. It’s essential to clean the barrel, slide, and other moving parts after each shooting session to ensure optimal performance.
The threaded barrel might accumulate debris, so pay attention to this particular part. As for the red dot sight, ensure it’s firmly attached to the slide and the glass is clean. A microfiber cloth is suitable for cleaning the red dot without leaving residue.