Retay Gordion Max-7 12 Gauge 28in Realtree Max-7
About this product
The Retay Gordion Max-7 is a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun built around Retay's Inertia Plus rotating bolt system for consistent cycling and reliable function. It uses a 28 inch drilled Bohler steel barrel with a chrome-lined bore and an 8mm vented flat hunting rib for straightforward follow-up handling. The synthetic stock carries a Realtree Max-7 hydrographic finish and includes an adjustable shim set plus an integrated sling swivel mount for fit and field use.
What is the Retay Gordion Max-7 used for?
The Retay Gordion Max-7 is designed for waterfowl and upland bird hunting where 3-inch shells and camouflage matter. Its 28-inch barrel provides smooth swing dynamics for crossing shots, while the 6.10-pound weight balances well during long stalks. The included five MaraPro chokes (C, F, IC, IM, M) cover everything from tight turkey patterns to open skeet spreads.
How does the Retay Gordion Max-7 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Retay Gordion Max-7 cycles faster than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in 3in Chamber due to its semi-auto action versus break-open design. Where the Stevens offers two instantaneous choke options via its over-under barrels, the Retay provides five choke tubes but requires manual swapping between patterns. For rapid follow-up shots on flushing birds, the Retay's 4+1 capacity and auto-loading give it a clear edge, though the Stevens wins on reliability in muddy conditions where actions can jam.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Retay Gordion Max-7 weighs 6.10 pounds with a 14.37-inch length of pull and 28-inch barrel length. Overall length measures approximately 48 inches, making it manageable in blinds but still long enough for stable swing dynamics. The 8mm vented rib reduces perceived weight during aimed shots, a noticeable improvement over solid ribs on competitors like the Beretta A300.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for tactical or home defense users who need magazine extensions or rail mounts. The 4+1 capacity is fixed with a limiter, and the synthetic stock lacks Picatinny slots for optics or lights. Compared to purpose-built defense shotguns like the Mossberg 590, the Retay's hunting-focused design sacrifices close-quarters versatility for field efficiency.
What's in the box?
The box includes the shotgun, five MaraPro choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), one sling swivel adapter, three adjustable shims for cast and drop, and an owner's manual. Notably absent are any choke tube wrenches or cleaning kits, which must be purchased separately—a common cost-saving move at this price point.
Is the Retay Gordion Max-7 worth it at $809?
At $809, the Retay Gordion Max-7 justifies its cost with reliable inertia-driven cycling and premium Bohler steel barrel construction. It undercuts similar semi-autos from Beretta or Benelli by $200-300 while matching their core hunting performance. For shooters who need a dependable waterfowl gun without boutique branding premiums, this represents solid value, especially compared to budget over-unders like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge which lack semi-auto speed.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.10 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than the Benelli Montefeltro
- Includes 5 choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F) — most competitors provide only 3
- 28-inch Bohler steel barrel resists corrosion better than 4140 chrome-moly
Trade-offs
- No choke tube wrench included — requires $15 aftermarket tool purchase
- Fixed 4+1 capacity — cannot accept magazine extensions like tactical models
- Synthetic stock lacks checkering — slick grip in wet conditions compared to stippled alternatives
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 193212000392 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GORCM7-28 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | C,F,IC,IM,M |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 10.2 |
| sights | TruGlo Fiber Optic Front bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Retay's proprietary MaraPro choke thread pattern, which is not interchangeable with Beretta Mobilchoke or Browning Invector tubes. You must purchase Retay-specific chokes, which retail for $35-50 each from authorized dealers.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- No, the 48-inch overall length requires a case at least 50 inches internal length for safe transport. Most standard cases measure 52 inches externally but only 48-49 inches internally, so check specifications before purchasing.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground, typically arriving in 5-7 business days continental US. Alaska and Hawaii shipments take 10-14 days via priority mail.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused items in original packaging. You must pay return shipping costs, which average $35-50 for shotgun-sized boxes via FedEx or UPS.
- Does this work with standard 2.75-inch shells?
- Yes, it cycles 2.75-inch shells reliably but is chambered for 3-inch magnums. The inertia system requires minimum 1200 fps velocity loads—avoid low-recoil target ammo under 1150 fps to prevent cycling issues.