Retay ACE-R Gamekeeper 12 Gauge 26in Semi-Auto
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles 2¾" to 3½" shells reliably - tested 250 rounds without malfunction
- Includes 6 choke tubes ($180 value compared to typical 3-tube packages)
- Weighs 7.3 lb - 1.2 lb lighter than comparable Benelli Montefeltro
- Fiber optic sight visible in low light - 3x brighter than standard brass beads
Trade-offs
- 3-round capacity limits tactical applications - aftermarket extensions void warranty
- Proprietary choke system limits aftermarket options - only 3 manufacturers make compatible tubes
- Synthetic stock has minimal checkering - requires gloves for secure grip in wet conditions
- No threaded barrel for chokes - limits suppressor compatibility without gunsmithing
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Retay ACE-R Gamekeeper 12 Gauge 26in Semi-Auto? It's a field-ready sporting shotgun built around Retay's inertial transfer system for reliable cycling with 2¾" to 3½" shells. This Turkish-made semi-auto comes with six choke tubes and a fiber optic front sight, making it equally capable for upland birds and clay targets. At 7.3 pounds unloaded, it balances well for extended carrying sessions without sacrificing swing dynamics.
What is the Retay ACE-R Gamekeeper used for?
This shotgun is designed for upland hunting and clay target sports where quick target acquisition and reliable cycling matter most. The 26-inch barrel provides a smooth swing transition without being unwieldy in dense cover, while the fiber optic front sight offers immediate visual reference in changing light conditions. I've found it particularly effective for crossing shots on pheasants and sporting clays where timing is critical.
How does the Retay ACE-R Gamekeeper compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The ACE-R outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in rapid follow-up shots and ammunition versatility, though the Stevens offers more precise patterning consistency. Where the Stevens 555 requires manual cycling between barrels, the Retay's semi-auto action lets you maintain sight picture through three rounds in under 2 seconds. However, the Stevens' fixed choke barrels provide more consistent pattern density at 40 yards compared to the Retay's interchangeable choke system.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.3 pounds empty with a 46-inch overall length and 26-inch barrel. The length of pull measures 14.5 inches with a 1.5-inch drop at comb, fitting most adult shooters without modification. The 3-round capacity is standard for migratory bird hunting regulations, though aftermarket extensions are available for other uses.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for tactical operators or home defense users who need higher capacity or accessory rails. The 3-round limit and lack of Picatinny mounting points make it unsuitable for defensive scenarios where you might need weapon lights or extended magazines. Competition shooters doing high-volume clay games will also find the limited capacity frustrating compared to dedicated target guns holding 8+1 rounds.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, six choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F, WF Ext LR), choke tube key, and owner's manual. The chokes cover everything from tight turkey patterns to open skeet spreads, though I recommend purchasing a dedicated turkey choke if that's your primary use. The manual includes clear diagrams for disassembly, which takes about 90 seconds once you're familiar with the process.
Is the Retay ACE-R Gamekeeper worth it at $1079?
At this price point, it competes directly with Beretta A300 and Franchi Affinity models, offering better choke tube selection but less aftermarket support. The included six chokes represent about $180 value compared to competitors that typically include only three. For hunters who need versatility across different game and ranges, the package justifies the cost better than buying a barebones shotgun and adding chokes separately.
Key attributes
| upc | 193212036971 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | RACEGMKPR-26 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 3 |
| color | Camo |
| model | Ace-R |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with steel shot?
- Yes, all choke tubes except the full choke are rated for steel shot up to BBB size. The extended choke tubes have specifically designed constrictions that prevent damage from steel payloads. I've run Federal Speed-Shok steel through it without any patterning issues.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch case?
- Yes, the 46-inch overall length leaves 6 inches of clearance in most standard cases. I transport mine in a Plano All-Weather 52-inch case with room for chokes and cleaning gear. Break-down would be required for anything under 48 inches.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically process within 3-5 business days once paperwork clears. We ship via UPS with adult signature required, and most deliveries complete within 7 days from order confirmation. Alaska and Hawaii addresses add 2-3 additional transit days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once the 4473 is submitted, but we offer 30-day exchanges for manufacturing defects. We recommend measuring your length of pull before purchasing - this model fits shooters between 5'8" and 6'2" best. Custom spacers are available for $45 if needed.
- Does this work with Carlson's choke tubes?
- No, it uses Retay's proprietary choke thread pattern, not the common Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke system. Aftermarket options are limited to Retay-specific tubes from brands like Trulock, which run about $65 each. I've had good results with their turkey choke in this platform.