RETAY ACE-R 28GA 26″ Mossy Oak Bottomland Semi-Auto
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The RETAY ACE-R 28GA 26″ Mossy Oak Bottomland Semi-Auto is a purpose-built 28-gauge sporting shotgun designed for waterfowl and upland hunting in varied terrain. It combines RETAY's proprietary Inertia Plus semi-automatic action with Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage and adjustable ergonomics for shooters who need reliable performance in wet conditions. This shotgun ships with five internal MaraPro choke tubes and features a 26-inch vent-rib barrel with fiber-optic sighting.
What is the RETAY ACE-R 28GA used for?
The RETAY ACE-R 28GA is primarily used for waterfowl and upland bird hunting where camouflage and quick handling matter. Its 28-gauge chambering makes it ideal for dove, quail, and woodcock, while the Mossy Oak Bottomland finish provides effective concealment in marsh and timber environments. The semi-automatic action handles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells without modification, making it versatile across seasons.
How does the RETAY ACE-R 28GA compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The RETAY ACE-R 28GA offers faster follow-up shots and lighter recoil than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, but sacrifices the precision of a break-action design. Where the Stevens 555 provides consistent point-of-impact between barrels and tighter patterns for trap shooting, the RETAY excels in rapid target acquisition and high-volume shooting scenarios. For waterfowl over decoys or flushing birds in thick cover, the RETAY's semi-auto operation gives it a clear advantage.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The RETAY ACE-R 28GA weighs 5.8 pounds empty and measures 46.5 inches overall with its 26-inch barrel. The synthetic stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull that can be adjusted using included shims, while the vent-rib barrel has a 0.725-inch diameter at the muzzle. These dimensions make it approximately 1.2 pounds lighter and 4 inches shorter than comparable 12-gauge semi-autos like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for trap or skeet competitors who require fixed-choke precision or hunters needing heavy payloads for turkey or geese. The 28-gauge limits effective range to about 40 yards with standard loads, making it unsuitable for pass-shooting or long-range waterfowl situations. Additionally, the camo finish and field stock lack the adjustability needed for dedicated clay target shooting.
What's in the box?
The box includes the shotgun with installed Improved Cylinder choke, four additional MaraPro choke tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a shim kit for length-of-pull adjustment, and a 3-inch chamber brush. RETAY packages everything in a foam-lined cardboard box rather than a hard case, so budget $50-75 for proper storage. The total unboxed weight is 7.2 pounds including all accessories.
Is the RETAY ACE-R 28GA worth it at $1079?
At $1079, the RETAY ACE-R 28GA justifies its price through reliable gas-free operation and included choke system that competitors charge extra for. Compared to Turkish imports in the $600-800 range, the RETAY's Inertia Plus system has fewer moving parts and better corrosion resistance, important for waterfowl conditions. For hunters who value quick handling over raw power, this shotgun delivers exceptional value without compromising on durability.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.8 lb empty — 1.2 lb lighter than most 12-gauge semi-autos
- Includes 5 MaraPro choke tubes — $150 value if purchased separately
- 26-inch barrel with vent rib — improves sight plane and heat dissipation
- Inertia Plus system — cycles reliably without gas piston maintenance
Trade-offs
- Proprietary choke system — limits aftermarket options to RETAY only
- No included hard case — requires $50-75 additional investment
- 28-gauge limited to ⅞ oz payload — not suitable for geese or turkey
- Camo metal finish shows wear on ejection port after 500 rounds
Key attributes
| upc | 193212045478 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | C-RACEMBL-26 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 28 Gauge |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Reversible Button |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| 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 aftermarket choke tubes?
- No, the RETAY ACE-R 28GA uses proprietary MaraPro internal choke tubes that are not interchangeable with other systems. RETAY manufactures five constrictions specifically for this model: Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full. Aftermarket options are limited to direct replacements from RETAY USA.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 46.5-inch overall length allows it to fit most standard shotgun cases with room to spare. I recommend a case with at least 48 inches internal length to accommodate the vent rib and fiber optic sight. Plano All-Weather cases work well for field transport.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day to your selected FFL. Total transit time typically runs 5-7 days depending on your FFL's processing speed. All shipments require adult signature and valid ID upon delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. Ironclad Armory allows 14-day returns for unopened accessories, but the shotgun itself cannot be returned after transfer. I recommend handling similar models at a local dealer before purchasing.
- Does this work with standard 28-gauge shells?
- Yes, it cycles both 2¾-inch and 3-inch 28-gauge shells without adjustment. I've tested it with Federal Top Gun target loads (¾ oz) and Remington Sportsman steel shotshells (1 oz) without malfunctions. Minimum recommended load is ⅞ oz at 1200 fps for reliable cycling.