Taurus G3 9mm 4in Optic-Cut Serrated Slide Gray Frame
About this product
The Taurus G3 4" Optic-Cut is a full-size, striker-fired 9mm pistol with a polymer frame and a pre-cut, serrated slide designed for mounting red-dot optics. This configuration ships with two magazines and an adjustable rear sight, offering what Taurus calls "versatility with intent"—a platform equally viable for defensive carry, range training, or introductory duty use. At a 7.3-inch overall length and weighing 2.45 pounds, it occupies the standard full-size duty pistol footprint, distinguishable by its manual safety and restrike capability.
What is the Taurus G3 4" Optic-Cut used for?
The Taurus G3 4" Optic-Cut is used for everyday defensive carry (EDC), range training, and as an entry-level optic-ready duty or home defense pistol. Its 4-inch barrel provides a favorable balance between ballistic efficiency and concealability, while the integrated optic cut allows users to modernize their sighting system without aftermarket machining. The aggressive grip texturing and memory pads are engineered for repeatable hand placement under recoil, and the included 17-round magazine aligns with typical duty-sidearm capacity standards.
How does the Taurus G3 4" Optic-Cut compare to a PSA Dagger Compact?
The Taurus G3 provides a more complete out-of-box package with its manual safety and restrike capability, whereas the Palmetto State Armory Dagger Compact is a simpler Glock 19 clone focused on cost and aftermarket compatibility. The G3 ships with two magazines (17 and 15 rounds) and an optic-ready slide, while the base Dagger typically requires a separate optics-cut slide purchase. The Taurus is the better choice for shooters who value a manual safety or its unique restrike feature for potential primer ignition issues; the Dagger is superior for those entrenched in the Glock ecosystem who prioritize vast aftermarket parts availability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded shipping weight is 2.45 pounds, and loaded with a full 17-round magazine of 124gr FMJ, the pistol weighs approximately 2.83 pounds. The critical dimensions are a 7.3-inch overall length, a 4-inch barrel length, and a grip height of 5.2 inches to accommodate the magazine basepad. The slide width measures 1.2 inches, which is compatible with most standard Kydex holsters designed for full-size 9mm striker pistols.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for the competitive shooter seeking a race-gun-ready platform or the minimalist who demands the lightest possible carry option. Its polymer striker-fired architecture lacks the modular grip panels or chassis systems found in higher-tier offerings like the Stevens 334 Rifle. The G3 is also a poor fit for enthusiasts who exclusively use suppressor-height or non-standard optic footprints, as its slide cut is tailored to common micro-red-dot patterns (RMS-C, Shield RMSc) and not larger optics like the Trijicon RMR.
What's in the box?
The box contains the G3 pistol with a 4-inch optic-ready serrated slide, one 17-round and one 15-round steel magazine, an adjustable rear sight assembly, a cable-style lock, and the owner's manual. Notably, it does not include any optic mounting plates—those must be sourced separately from Taurus or third parties based on your specific red-dot model. The absence of plates is a common industry practice but a critical detail for immediate setup.
Is the Taurus G3 4" Optic-Cut worth it at $262.99?
At $262.99, the Taurus G3 4" Optic-Cut represents significant value for a shooter seeking an optic-ready defensive handgun on a strict budget, delivering features often found on models costing $100 more. You receive a functional defensive tool with modern cuts, decent ergonomics, and proven reliability in a package that leaves budget for ammo and training, unlike more expensive platforms that consume the entire firearm allowance. Consider this purchase if your priority is a reliable, modernized 9mm for the range or bedside, but look to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge if your needs shift towards recreational clay shooting.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Optic-ready slide pre-cut for RMSc footprint — saves $150+ vs. aftermarket milling
- Includes both 17-round and 15-round magazines — immediate capacity flexibility
- Manual safety and restrike capability — features absent from most Glock clones
- Aggressive grip texturing and memory pads — provides positive purchase in wet or dry conditions
Trade-offs
- No optic mounting plates included — requires separate $30-$50 purchase for most red dots
- Slide serrations are shallow — less purchase for press checks than deeper-cut competitors
- Adjustable rear sight is proprietary — limits aftermarket sight options without modification
- Gray frame finish shows holster wear rapidly — expect visible scuffing within 100 draws
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327628224 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 1-G3P941-STL |
| action | Striker Fired |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 4" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 17 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| model | G3 |
| number of magazines | 2 One 17 rd. and One 15 rd. |
| package height | 1.8 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Manual/Striker Block/Trigger |
| shipping weight | 2.45 |
| sights | White Dot Front, Adj. Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| slide description | Optic Cut/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the optic cut compatible with Holosun 507C?
- No, the slide's optic cut is designed for the RMSc/Shield footprint, not the larger Holosun 507C. You will need an adapter plate, which Taurus or companies like CHPWS sell for approximately $40-60. Direct mounting the 507C will not work due to differing screw patterns and recoil lug positions.
- Does this fit Glock 17 holsters?
- Generally yes, but with a caveat. The outer dimensions are similar, but the manual safety lever may interfere with some tight-fitting Glock 17 kydex holsters. Test fit is recommended. For a guaranteed fit, seek a holster specifically molded for the Taurus G3, which typically adds 5-10 business days for production.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard processing is 2-3 business days before shipment, with ground transit adding 3-7 business days depending on your FFL's location from our warehouse in Kentucky. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout, which can reduce total transit time to 2-4 business days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, direct returns for ergonomic fit are not accepted due to federal firearm regulations. All firearm sales are final once transferred through your FFL. We strongly recommend handling a G3 at a local dealer before purchasing. Exchanges are only processed for demonstrable manufacturer defects, which must be reported within 30 days of FFL transfer.
- Does this work with a TLR-1 HL weapon light?
- Yes, the integrated Picatinny rail section will accommodate a Streamlight TLR-1 HL or similar-sized weapon light securely. The rail has a standard 3-slot length, providing sufficient real estate for proper clamp engagement. Ensure the light's activation switch doesn't interfere with your support-hand grip during dry-fire practice.