TriStar Protege X Sub-Compact 9mm — OD Green/Black, 3.2in
About this product
The TriStar Protege X Sub-Compact 9mm is a polymer-frame, striker-fired pistol designed for concealed carry, featuring a 3.2-inch barrel, a 7+1 round capacity, and a distinctive OD Green Cerakote over stainless steel frame paired with a black slide. It's a purpose-built tool for discreet daily carry, prioritizing durability and a simplified manual-of-arms over high capacity or target-shooting features. Its sub-compact footprint and 1911-inspired control layout make it a direct competitor in the single-stack 9mm market.
What is the TriStar Protege X used for?
This pistol is for daily concealed carry. It offers a total loaded weight of approximately 21.5 ounces and an overall length of 6.2 inches, making it easier to conceal than full-size duty weapons. The fixed three-dot sights and straightforward trigger are calibrated for defensive engagements inside 15 yards, not for precision target work. For shooters needing a dedicated, no-frills carry gun, this configuration eliminates common failure points associated with more complex designs.
How does the TriStar Protege X compare to the Stevens 334 rifle?
The Protege X is a close-range defensive handgun, while the Stevens 334 rifle is a long-range, high-power rifle platform. The Protege X operates at distances under 25 meters with 9mm pressure, whereas the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester is effective beyond 800 meters and generates significantly more recoil energy. If your threat profile involves interior spaces or needing deep concealment, the 9mm handgun is superior; for hunting or rural defensive posts, the rifle is the correct tool.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The empty frame weighs 18.2 ounces, and the loaded 7-round magazine adds approximately 3.3 ounces for a total ready-to-fire weight of 21.5 ounces. Its key dimensions are an overall length of 6.2 inches, a height of 4.7 inches, and a slide width of 1.06 inches. This footprint is 0.8 inches shorter and 4.3 ounces lighter than a Glock 19, trading capacity for superior concealability, especially in appendix or ankle carry positions.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not the pistol for a new shooter seeking a soft-recoiling, high-capacity training platform. The 3.2-inch barrel and light frame increase perceived recoil, and the seven-round capacity is limiting for extended range sessions or multi-threat scenarios. It’s also not ideal for a collector focused on aftermarket support, as the accessory ecosystem for TriStar pistols is narrower than for Glock or SIG models. If your primary use case involves more than 100 rounds per range trip, a larger service pistol like our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U for clays would be a more suitable platform for building fundamentals.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, one seven-round steel magazine, a cable lock, and the owner’s manual. The package expressly does not include a holster, spare magazine, or cleaning kit—common omissions in this price segment that buyers should budget for separately. The single magazine is a functional limitation for training; I recommend purchasing at least one additional magazine immediately, as reloads under stress with only one magazine are a significant tactical compromise.
Is the TriStar Protege X worth it at $512.99?
At this price point, it occupies a competitive niche. The Cerakote-over-steel frame construction justifies a $75-100 premium over basic polymer-frame alternatives, offering superior corrosion resistance in a carry-gun environment where sweat exposure is constant. For the shooter who values a durable finish and simplified mechanics over accessory rails or modular grips, the value is there. However, if you require night sights or an optics-ready slide from the factory, you will need to add $150-$300 in gunsmithing costs, which changes the value proposition significantly.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Cerakote-over-steel frame construction—far more resistant to sweat corrosion than bare polymer.
- 6.2-inch overall length—0.8 inches shorter than a standard Glock 19 for better concealment.
- Total loaded weight of 21.5 oz—lighter than most all-steel compact 9mm pistols by 8-10 ounces.
- Fixed three-dot sights—eliminates the snag hazard and adjustment complexity of adjustable sights.
Trade-offs
- Single magazine included—requires immediate purchase of a spare for practical training ($35-$45).
- No accessory rail—cannot mount a weapon light without custom gunsmithing ($120+).
- Limited aftermarket support—fewer holster and sight options than dominant brands like Glock or SIG.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 713780857145 |
| manufacturer | TriStar Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 85714 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 7 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 10.7000 |
| number of magazines | 2 7 rd. |
| package height | 3.25 |
| package width | 8.25 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Ambidextrous Thumb |
| shipping weight | 2.6 |
| sights | Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| slide description | Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Glock 43 holsters?
- No, the Protege X's slide and frame dimensions differ from the Glock 43. It requires holsters specifically molded for the TriStar C-100 or Protege X models. We recommend checking with holster manufacturers like Vedder or Alien Gear for dedicated models; expect a lead time of 7-10 business days for custom orders.
- Does it fit in a vehicle console safe?
- Yes, its 6.2-inch overall length and 1.06-inch width allow it to fit most compact vehicle safes like the Console Vault model CV-TAC-UNI. You will have approximately 1.5 inches of clearance lengthwise in a typical console, but always verify your specific safe's interior dimensions before purchasing.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing time is 1-2 business days after order verification. Shipment via FedEx 2Day to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 2-3 additional business days. The total timeline from order to FFL notification is usually 4-6 business days, not including the FFL's background check period.
- Does this work with TriStar T-100 magazines?
- No. The Protege X uses a dedicated seven-round, single-stack magazine specific to this sub-compact model. Attempting to use a double-stack T-100 magazine will cause failure to seat and likely induce a feed malfunction. Always use TriStar part number MAG-PX-9SC for replacements.