PSA Dagger Frame: Complete Guide to Features and Design

The PSA Dagger frame has become a popular choice for gun owners looking to build or customize their own pistol. Made by Palmetto State Armory, this polymer frame offers an affordable alternative to more expensive options while maintaining quality and reliability. The frame works with many aftermarket parts, which makes it appealing to both new shooters and experienced gun enthusiasts.

PSA Dagger frames come in three sizes - Micro, Compact, and Full Size-S - and arrive fully equipped with internal components including the fire control group, slide stop lever, and magazine release. Each frame features a black polymer construction with textured grips for better control. The frames are compatible with Glock Gen3 components, which opens up many customization possibilities.

Understanding what comes with a PSA Dagger complete frame helps buyers know exactly what they're getting. The frame includes a single-action striker-fired trigger with a flat face, striker block safety, and trigger safety built in. This guide covers everything gun owners need to know about PSA Dagger frames, from their construction to compatibility with other parts.

Key Takeaways

• PSA Dagger frames are available in three sizes and come pre-installed with all internal components ready to use

• The polymer frames feature ergonomic texturing and are compatible with Glock Gen3 parts for easy customization

• Each frame includes safety features like striker block and trigger safety plus a flat-faced trigger system

PSA Dagger Frame Overview

The PSA Dagger frame serves as the foundation for Palmetto State Armory's budget-friendly handgun platform. These frames come in multiple size configurations and include all necessary internal components for a complete build.

What Is the PSA Dagger Frame?

The PSA Dagger frame is a polymer pistol frame manufactured by Palmetto State Armory. It features compatibility with Glock-pattern components and aftermarket parts. PSA Dagger frames come completely equipped with standard Dagger internals, including a single-action striker-fired fire control group with a flat-faced trigger, slide stop lever assembly, and magazine release assembly.

The frame uses an ergonomic design with aggressive texturing on the grip surface. This texturing provides a secure hold during shooting. The polymer construction keeps the weight low while maintaining durability for regular use.

Frame Configurations and Size Options

Palmetto State Armory offers the Dagger in three main frame sizes: Compact, Full Size - S, and Micro. Each configuration serves different purposes and user preferences.

The Compact frame provides a balance between concealability and capacity. The Full Size - S frame combines full-size ergonomics with a compact slide, accommodating a 17-round flush-fit magazine. This design suits shooters with larger hands who want extended grip length. The Micro version offers the smallest footprint for maximum concealability.

All frames maintain compatibility with Gen 3 Glock accessories and holsters. The Compact and Compact X slides work with Gen 4-5 compact frames with minor adjustments.

Palmetto State Armory's Role

Palmetto State Armory developed the Dagger line to provide affordable handguns without sacrificing quality. The company manufactures these frames directly and sells them through their retail channels. PSA positioned the Dagger as a cost-effective alternative to more expensive pistol platforms.

The manufacturer offers extensive customization options for buyers. Frames are available in multiple color options including black and gray finishes. PSA maintains direct control over production quality and pricing, allowing them to keep costs lower than many competitors while delivering reliable performance.

Construction and Key Features

The PSA Dagger frame uses reinforced polymer construction with textured surfaces for improved handling. The frame works with many Glock Gen 3 parts, making it easy to find accessories and replacement components.

Polymer Frame and Build Quality

The PSA Dagger features a polymer frame made from reinforced polymer that balances strength with lightweight properties. This material makes the frame more resistant to impacts compared to metal alternatives.

The polymer construction handles environmental factors better than traditional materials. It withstands moisture and extreme temperatures without losing performance. This resistance keeps the firearm reliable in different settings.

The frame adds durability without extra weight. This makes the Dagger suitable for both new shooters and experienced users. The reinforced polymer design maintains its structural integrity during regular use while keeping the overall weight manageable for daily carry.

Aggressive Texturing for Grip

The frame includes aggressive textured grips that help users maintain control during shooting. The texture keeps the gun steady in the hand and reduces movement when firing. This helps improve accuracy by preventing the firearm from slipping.

The ergonomic grip design works well even in wet or muddy conditions. The texturing is effective without being uncomfortable during extended shooting sessions.

The grip reduces hand fatigue by allowing a more secure hold. Shooters can focus on accuracy rather than constantly adjusting their grip. The texture is comparable to higher-end firearms but comes at a lower price point.

Compatibility With Glock Components

The Dagger frame accepts many Glock Gen 3 aftermarket parts and accessories. This compatibility gives owners numerous options for customization without needing specialized components. The accessory rail located at the front of the trigger guard fits standard Picatinny rail accessories.

The frame works with Glock 19 magazines, offering users flexibility in choosing ammunition capacity options. The Full Size-S Dagger frame is compatible with all Dagger Compact slides and components, providing additional configuration choices.

Users can upgrade triggers, sights, and other parts using readily available Glock-compatible components. This makes maintenance and customization straightforward for those already familiar with the Glock platform.

Internal Components and Safeties

The PSA Dagger frame houses a complete fire control system that includes all the internal mechanisms needed for safe operation. The pistol uses a striker-fired design with multiple built-in safety features that work together without requiring external manual safeties.

Dagger Internals and Fire Control Group

The Dagger frame comes with internal components that control how the pistol fires. All Compact Dagger slides come with internal parts, and frames typically include the complete fire control group installed from the factory.

The fire control group contains the trigger mechanism, connector, and related springs. These parts work together to release the striker when the trigger is pulled. PSA designed these components to be compatible with Glock Gen 3 specifications, which means many aftermarket parts can replace the factory pieces.

Some owners choose to swap out Dagger internals for OE Glock internals to customize the feel or performance. The frame accepts standard Glock trigger assemblies, trigger bars, and connectors without modification.

Single-Action Striker-Fired Operation

The PSA Dagger uses a single-action striker-fired system. When a round is chambered, the slide partially cocks the striker as it moves forward. The trigger completes the cocking process and releases the striker to fire the round.

This design provides a consistent trigger pull for every shot. The trigger must fully reset between shots, which gives the shooter tactile and audible feedback. The striker spring provides the energy needed to ignite the primer when released.

Flat-Faced Fire Control Group

The Dagger frame features a flat-faced trigger design. This trigger shape provides a different contact point compared to curved triggers. Many shooters prefer the flat face because it creates a consistent finger position.

The flat trigger face helps maintain steady trigger control during the press. The trigger includes a safety blade in the center that must be depressed for the pistol to fire. The trigger pull weight is set at the factory to balance safety and shootability.

Integrated Safeties

The PSA Dagger includes three passive safety mechanisms that work automatically. The trigger safety is a small lever built into the trigger face that prevents the trigger from moving backward unless deliberately pressed. This blocks accidental discharges from objects catching the trigger.

The striker block safety is an internal component that physically blocks the striker from moving forward. Only pulling the trigger moves this block out of the way. The drop safety prevents the striker from releasing if the pistol is dropped or struck.

These built-in safeties function without any action from the shooter. The pistol does not include a manual thumb safety or grip safety from the factory. All three safeties disengage only during a proper trigger pull and automatically reset when the trigger is released.

Controls and Customization

The PSA Dagger frame features standard control components that work with most Glock Gen 3 parts. These controls allow shooters to customize their setup based on personal preferences and shooting style.

Slide Stop Lever Assembly

The slide stop lever assembly on the PSA Dagger frame performs two main functions. It locks the slide open after the last round fires and allows the shooter to manually lock the slide back during loading or unloading.

The factory slide stop works reliably for most shooters. However, the frame accepts aftermarket Glock Gen 3 compatible slide stop levers. Extended slide stops provide a larger surface area for easier manipulation. Some shooters prefer these for faster reloads or if they have larger hands.

Installation requires basic tools and takes only a few minutes. The lever sits in a channel on the left side of the frame and connects to the internal mechanism through a spring-loaded pin.

Magazine Release Assembly

The magazine release assembly sits on the left side of the frame by default. It uses a button that the shooter presses to drop the magazine from the pistol grip.

The factory magazine release works with standard Glock magazines. Most shooters find the size and placement comfortable for quick magazine changes. Extended magazine releases offer a wider button surface that some shooters prefer for competition or defensive use.

The frame allows for reversible magazine releases on some models. This lets left-handed shooters move the button to the right side of the frame. The process involves removing the factory button and reinstalling it from the opposite side.

Aftermarket and Accessory Options

The PSA Dagger frame's compatibility with Glock Gen 3 parts opens up extensive customization possibilities. Shooters can swap triggers, sights, barrels, and slides without specialized tools or gunsmithing in most cases.

Popular upgrades include improved trigger assemblies that reduce pull weight and travel distance. These components should be installed by certified gunsmiths to ensure proper function and safety. Adding aftermarket parts may void the manufacturer warranty.

The frame also accepts accessories like lights and lasers through its accessory rail. This rail sits forward of the trigger guard and uses standard mounting systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

PSA Dagger frames raise common questions about compatibility, purchasing requirements, and size variations. Understanding the legal requirements and technical specifications helps buyers make informed decisions about their build or purchase.

How do you complete an 80% frame for the PSA Dagger?

Completing an 80% frame for the PSA Dagger requires specific tools and careful work. The builder must remove excess polymer material from the frame using a jig, drill press or router, and various drill bits. This process creates the necessary channels and holes for the trigger assembly and rails.

The frame needs precise drilling and milling to ensure proper function. Most 80% frame kits include a jig that guides the drilling process. Builders should follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly to avoid mistakes that could make the frame unusable.

After completing the machining work, the builder installs the rail system and pins. The trigger assembly, slide lock, and other internal components go in last. Testing the fit and function before firing ensures everything works correctly.

Which models are compatible with the PSA Dagger frame?

The PSA Dagger frame works with Glock Gen 3 components and many aftermarket parts designed for that platform. Slides, barrels, and internal parts made for Glock 19 Gen 3 pistols typically fit the Dagger frame without modification.

Many holster manufacturers design their products to fit both Glock 19 and PSA Dagger Compact models. Aftermarket trigger systems, sights, and recoil springs made for Glock 19 also work with Dagger frames. This compatibility gives owners many options for customization and replacement parts.

Can you purchase a PSA Dagger frame without involving an FFL?

A complete PSA Dagger frame does not require an FFL transfer in most states. The frame itself is not considered a firearm under federal law when sold as a standalone component. Buyers can typically order frames directly to their home address.

State and local laws may have additional requirements that override federal regulations. Some states classify frames as firearms and require background checks or FFL transfers. Buyers should check their specific state and local laws before ordering.

80% frames have different rules than complete frames. These unfinished frames can usually be purchased without an FFL, but recent regulations have changed some requirements for 80% frames and build kits.

Is the PSA Dagger frame interchangeable with the Glock 19?

The PSA Dagger frame accepts Glock 19 Gen 3 slides and most compatible parts. A Glock 19 slide will fit and function on a Dagger frame without modifications. This interchangeability extends to barrels, recoil springs, and internal components.

The PSA Dagger frames work with Glock-pattern magazines from various manufacturers. OEM Glock magazines and aftermarket options from companies like Magpul function reliably. The magazine release and grip angle closely match Glock specifications.

However, the frames are not identical in every dimension. Some holsters designed specifically for Glock 19 may have tight tolerances that don't accommodate the Dagger frame. The texturing and exact grip dimensions differ slightly between the two designs.

What options are available for a PSA Dagger frame and slide combination?

PSA offers complete pistols and separate frame and slide combinations. Buyers can purchase a complete ready-to-fire pistol or build their own using individual components. The company sells complete frames with all internal parts installed and bare frames for custom builds.

Complete slide assemblies come with the barrel, recoil spring, and sights already installed. These assemblies attach directly to a complete frame for a functional pistol. Stripped slides are available for builders who want to choose their own barrel and sight configuration.

PSA periodically offers bundle deals that include both a Dagger frame and other components. These packages often provide cost savings compared to buying parts separately. The availability of specific combinations varies based on current inventory.

What are the differences between the various PSA Dagger frame sizes?

The Compact Dagger frame accepts a 15-round magazine as its flush-fit option. This frame size matches Glock 19 dimensions and provides a balance between concealability and capacity. The grip length accommodates most hand sizes while remaining suitable for concealed carry.

The Full Size-Short Dagger has a grip that is approximately half an inch longer than the Compact. This frame accepts 17-round magazines as flush-fit. Both models use the same compact-length slide, so the only difference is the grip length and magazine capacity.

The Micro Dagger represents the smallest frame option in the lineup. This subcompact model offers greater concealability with a shorter grip and reduced overall size. The smaller frame makes it lighter and easier to hide but may be more challenging for shooters with larger hands to control.