RETAY ACE Extra Black 20ga 28″ Semi-Auto
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.5 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than comparable gas-operated semi-autos
- Includes 5 choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F) — $150 value compared to competitors
- 28-inch barrel provides 40-inch sight plane for improved swing tracking
- Airy Pad reduces felt recoil by approximately 15% versus standard rubber pads
Trade-offs
- Proprietary choke system requires RETAY-specific tubes — limits aftermarket options
- 3+1 capacity falls short of some competitors' 4+1 or 5+1 systems
- No included case or accessory pack — basic packaging only
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustability beyond basic shim kit
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the RETAY ACE Extra Black 20ga 28″ Semi-Auto? It's a 20 gauge semi-automatic shotgun built on an inertia piston system with a 28-inch vent-rib barrel, designed for consistent cycling and practical handling in field and clay shooting applications. The 6.5-pound platform includes a synthetic stock with adjustable shim kit and comes with five MaraPro choke tubes. This configuration prioritizes reliability over tactical features, making it a workhorse rather than a showpiece.
What is the RETAY ACE Extra Black used for?
It's optimized for clays and upland hunting where a 28-inch barrel provides smooth swing dynamics. The inertia system handles light 7/8-ounce target loads up to standard 3-inch magnums without adjustment, making it versatile across different shooting disciplines. I've found it particularly effective for sporting clays courses where transition speed matters.
How does the RETAY ACE compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The RETAY cycles faster between shots but lacks the Stevens 555's instant barrel selection capability. While the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge offers two choke options simultaneously, the RETAY provides semi-automatic speed with 3+1 capacity versus the over-under's 2-round limit. For high-volume clay shooting, the RETAY's faster follow-up shots give it an edge.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
It weighs 6.5 pounds with an overall length of 48 inches. The 28-inch barrel has a vent rib measuring 8mm wide with a centered fiber optic bead. The length of pull measures 14.5 inches, which accommodates most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for tactical or home defense applications where shorter barrels dominate. The 28-inch barrel creates handling challenges in tight spaces, and the 3-round magazine capacity falls short of defensive shotguns. If you need quick target acquisition in close quarters, consider the Stevens 334 rifle platform instead.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun with installed Improved Cylinder choke, four additional MaraPro tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), and an adjustable shim kit with three inserts. The package includes a basic choke wrench and owner's manual, but no case or additional accessories.
Is the RETAY ACE worth it at $999?
At this price point, it competes directly with entry-level Berettas and Benellis, offering similar inertia-driven reliability. The included five-choke system represents about $150 value compared to competitors that often ship with only one or two tubes. For shooters who want a dedicated field gun without paying for fancy wood or decorative engraving, the value proposition is solid.
Key attributes
| upc | 193212029812 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | B-ACEBLK-28 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 39.3000 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Reversible Button |
| shipping weight | 9.55 |
| sights | TruGlo Fiber Optic Front bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 20 gauge chokes?
- No, it uses RETAY's proprietary MaraPro choke system with a different thread pattern than Beretta/Benelli Mobilchokes. You'll need to purchase RETAY-specific tubes, which run $35-50 each from authorized dealers.
- Does it fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 48-inch overall length fits standard cases designed for 28-inch barrel shotguns. I recommend cases with at least 49 inches of internal clearance to accommodate the full length with choke installed.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days, with ground shipping adding 5-7 days depending on your FFL's location. Expect 8-10 total days from order to pickup at your licensed dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, but Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day warranty on manufacturing defects. If the stock length doesn't work for you, aftermarket pads can adjust LOP by up to 1.5 inches.
- Does this work with standard 2.75-inch target loads?
- Yes, the inertia system cycles reliably with light 7/8-ounce loads when clean, though I recommend breaking it in with at least 100 rounds of standard 1-ounce loads first for optimal performance.