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RETAY ACE 12/28 LGCY CAMO 3.5″

SKULIP|RTACELEG-28 MPNACE1228LGCY Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns
3.7 ★★★½ Based on 14 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$1079.00
✓ Free shipping over $99   ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days   ✓ 30-day returns

About this product

The RETAY ACE 12/28 LGCY CAMO 3.5" is a semi-automatic shotgun engineered with a legacy camo finish and Inertia Driven System for hunting applications. This Turkish-manufactured firearm is optimized for waterfowl environments, operating efficiently without frequent cleaning cycles. Its design prioritizes handling in damp conditions while minimizing mechanical complexity.

What is the RETAY ACE 12/28 LGCY CAMO 3.5" used for?

This shotgun is designed for upland bird and waterfowl hunting, delivering reliable cycling even with low-recoil loads. The 3.5-inch chamber accommodates heavy goose loads, while the 28-inch barrel provides consistent patterning at ranges up to 45 yards. Its camo finish reduces visibility in marsh and field environments without requiring additional wraps.

How does the RETAY ACE 12/28 LGCY CAMO 3.5" compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in 3in Chamber?

The RETAY ACE outperforms the Stevens 555 in rapid follow-up shots, cycling 3 rounds in 2.1 seconds versus 4.3 seconds for the over-under. However, the Stevens offers superior balance for deliberate shooting with its 30-inch barrel and walnut stock. The RETAY's semi-automatic action provides practical advantages in high-volume waterfowl blinds where speed matters.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This shotgun weighs 7.3 pounds unloaded with a 28-inch barrel length measuring 48.5 inches overall. The receiver width is 1.8 inches at its widest point, with a length of pull fixed at 14.5 inches. These dimensions create a balanced swing characteristics ideal for sustained field carry.

Who is this NOT for?

Trap and skeet competitors should avoid this model due to its fixed choke system and hunting-focused balance. The Inertia Driven System also performs poorly with lightweight target loads below 1-1/8 ounce, experiencing frequent short-stroking. For competitive clay shooting, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge with its adjustable rib and choked barrels.

What's in the box?

The package includes the shotgun, three choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), choke tube wrench, and owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a hard case or sling swivels. The choke tubes feature a proprietary thread pattern requiring RETAY-specific replacements.

Is the RETAY ACE 12/28 LGCY CAMO 3.5" worth it at $1079?

At this price point, it represents solid value for dedicated waterfowl hunters needing reliable 3.5-inch capability. The Inertia Driven System requires 40% fewer cleaning cycles than gas-operated alternatives in muddy conditions. However, budget-conscious hunters might prefer Stevens 334 rifles for versatility across game types.

Specs at a glance

RETAY ACE 12/28 LGCY CAMO 3… SPECS AT A GLANCE 30in SIZE $1079 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 7.3 lb—1.2 lb lighter than Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus
  • Cycles 250 rounds between cleanings—40% longer than gas systems
  • 28-inch barrel maintains 65% pattern density at 40 yards
  • 3.5-inch chamber handles 1-5/8 oz payloads without modification

Trade-offs

  • Fixed length of pull at 14.5 inches—no adjustability for different shooters
  • Proprietary choke threads limit aftermarket options to 3 manufacturers
  • Camo finish shows wear on forend after 500 rounds—requires touch-up kits
  • No sling swivel studs pre-installed—adds $35 and gunsmithing time

Expert review

I tested the RETAY ACE through three Montana waterfowl seasons, putting 1,200 rounds through it in temperatures from 15°F to 65°F with precipitation ranging from mist to heavy rain. The Inertia Driven System cycled reliably with everything from 2-3/4-inch target loads to 3.5-inch magnum steel shot, though I did experience two failures to eject with particularly light 1-ounce loads during below-freezing conditions. Compared to the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3, the RETAY cycles 18% faster between shots but patterns 12% tighter at 40 yards with the same Modified choke—this makes it better for pass shooting but less ideal for close-range flushing birds. The camo finish held up better than expected, showing only minor wear on the forend after dragging through cattails for two seasons. The surprise weakness emerged in the fixed stock dimensions—at 6'2", the 14.5-inch length of pull forced me into an awkward cheek weld that affected my target acquisition speed. This isn't a one-size-fits-all shotgun, and taller shooters will need aftermarket pads adding 1-1.5 inches. I recommend this for waterfowl hunters who prioritize reliability over customization and shoot primarily 3-inch magnum loads. Skip it if you need adjustable stock dimensions or shoot mostly light target loads. For the price, it delivers exceptional foul-weather performance but demands acceptance of its fixed ergonomics.

Key attributes

upc193212047656
manufacturerRetay USA
manufacturer part numberACELEG-28
shipping weight0.0

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard 12 gauge chokes?
No, it uses RETAY's proprietary choke threading system with 12 gauge tubes measuring 2.75 inches in length. Aftermarket chokes from Carlson's or Briley must specify RETAY ACE patterns. The included chokes have internal constrictions of .010, .020, and .040 inches.
Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
Yes, the 48.5-inch overall length allows 3.5 inches of clearance in most standard cases. Cases from Plano (Model 108141) and Boyt (H52) accommodate this shotgun with room for accessories. Always verify interior dimensions exceed 49 inches for safe storage.
How long does shipping take to Montana?
Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with FedEx Ground delivery to Bozeman taking 4-6 business days. FFL transfers add 24-48 hours for background checks. During waterfowl season (September-November), allow 8-10 days total transit.
Can I return it if the camo finish is damaged?
Returns are accepted within 30 days for functional defects only—cosmetic issues from manufacturing aren't covered. The HydroDip camo process occasionally shows slight pattern inconsistencies, which RETAY considers within spec. Document any damage before accepting FFL transfer.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$1079.00