RETAY GORDION 20GA 26″ BLACK SYNTHETIC
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.8 pounds — nearly a pound lighter than most 12-gauge semiautos
- Includes 5 steel-compatible choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F) — saves $80-120 over buying separately
- Cycles 2¾-inch target loads at 1,200 fps through 3-inch magnums without adjustment — wider load range than most gas systems
- 26-inch barrel provides 45.5-inch overall length — better balance for upland hunting than 28-inch barrels
Trade-offs
- Proprietary MaraPro choke threads — incompatible with standard aftermarket tubes without gunsmith work
- Visible mold lines on synthetic stock — requires light sanding for smooth finish
- Fixed magazine capacity — no extension options for sporting clays or tactical use
- No hard case included — cardboard box only with foam inserts
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The RETAY GORDION 20GA 26″ BLACK SYNTHETIC is a Turkish-made semi-automatic shotgun that uses an inertia piston system with a rotating bolt for reliable cycling with light target loads through 3-inch magnums. Built on a single-piece aluminum receiver with corrosion-resistant barrel lining, this shotgun represents a mid-priced import option focused on field versatility over traditional sporting pedigree.
What is the RETAY GORDION used for?
The RETAY GORDION 20 gauge is primarily a field gun for upland birds and waterfowl where weight and quick handling matter. That 26-inch barrel provides a smooth swing-through for flushing quail or pheasant, while the inertia system keeps cycling reliable with everything from 7/8-ounce target loads to heavier 3-inch steel shot loads. With the included five MaraPro chokes, you can pattern anything from close-quarters dove loads to tight modified patterns for turkeys at 40 yards—making it one of the more versatile field guns in this price bracket.
How does the RETAY GORDION compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The RETAY GORDION is a faster-cycling semi-auto better suited for high-volume shooting like waterfowl or clays, while the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact O/U offers more immediate barrel selection for sporting clays or hunting transitions. The Gordion's inertia system requires less cleaning than a gas-operated semi-auto and will cycle 2¾-inch light target loads at a rate of approximately one shot every 1.2 seconds, but it lacks the instant choke change capability of an over/under's dual barrels. Buy the 555 for deliberate shot placement and barrel selection; buy the Gordion for follow-up shots and sustained fire in wet conditions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The RETAY GORDION weighs 5.8 pounds unloaded and measures 45.5 inches overall with its 26-inch barrel. That weight is distributed with a slight forward balance due to the solid steel bolt carrier in the receiver, making it swing smoothly but feel slightly muzzle-heavy compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 gauge which balances more neutrally at its pivot point. The length of pull is adjustable from 13.5 to 14.75 inches using the included shim set, accommodating most adult shooters from small-framed to large.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the shooter who wants absolute mechanical simplicity or immediate barrel/choke selection. The inertia system requires proper mounting and a firm shoulder to cycle reliably—limp-wristing or shooting from the hip will cause failures to eject. It's also not ideal for formal trap or skeet competitions where specific weight-forward configurations or specialized choke tubes are preferred; the synthetic stock lacks the fine cast or drop adjustments of dedicated competition guns costing twice as much.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun with one magazine tube installed, five MaraPro choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, three stock adjustment shims, and owner's manual. The choke tubes are steel-compatible for waterfowl loads, but you'll need to supply your own sling; the integrated swivel mount accepts standard 1¼-inch QD swivels. Unlike some European imports, there's no hard case included—expect a cardboard box with foam inserts.
Is the RETAY GORDION worth it at $729?
At $729, the RETAY GORDION offers competitive value against other inertia-driven semiautomatics like the Franchi Affinity or Stoeger M3000, which typically run $850+. You're paying for a corrosion-resistant barrel lining, five steel-compatible chokes, and a reliable action that requires minimal maintenance compared to gas systems. The trade-off is fit and finish—mold lines are visible on the synthetic stock, and the aluminum receiver has a functional rather than refined finish. For a hunter who needs a 20-gauge that will cycle everything from light target loads to 3-inch magnums without adjustment, it's a solid choice; for someone wanting heirloom-grade wood or competition-grade controls, look elsewhere.
Key attributes
| upc | 193212000620 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GOR20BLK-26 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 37 |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 9.6 |
| 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 chokes?
- Yes, but only with Retay's proprietary MaraPro choke system with external threads measuring 20.5mm in diameter—standard Winchoke or Beretta/Benelli Mobil threads won't fit. I recommend ordering additional MaraPro tubes directly from Retay's US distributor, or having a gunsmith open the threads for around $75 if you want to use your existing choke collection.
- Does it fit in a standard gun safe?
- At 45.5 inches overall length, it requires a safe with interior dimensions of at least 48 inches to allow clearance for the barrel when stored muzzle-down. For reference, a typical 12-gun stack-on cabinet measures 55 inches tall internally, providing adequate room for this shotgun alongside rifles like the <a href="/products/stevens-334-308win-20-3rd-black/">Stevens 334 in .308</a>.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory ships most in-stock firearms within 3 business days via FedEx Ground to your selected FFL. Transit time depends on location—expect 5-10 business days from order to FFL receipt. You'll need to coordinate directly with your chosen FFL for transfer and background check completion once the firearm arrives.
- Can I return it if it has mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day inspection period for mechanical defects—if the firearm fails to cycle properly with appropriate ammunition, they'll arrange return shipping and repair through their warranty center. Cosmetic issues or buyer's remorse returns are handled on a case-by-case basis with a 15% restocking fee after the firearm has been transferred through an FFL.
- Does this work with a magazine extension?
- No, the RETAY GORDION's magazine tube is not designed for aftermarket extensions due to the inertia system's specific spring tension requirements. Attempting to install a +2 extension will void the warranty and likely cause cycling issues with lighter loads. The factory 4+1 capacity (3+1 for migratory bird hunting with plug installed) is fixed.
- Is the trigger adjustable?
- No, the single-stage trigger has a fixed pull weight of approximately 5.5 pounds with minimal take-up and a clean break—it's not user-adjustable for weight or travel. Compared to competition shotguns with adjustable triggers, this is a field-grade pull that's safe and reliable but lacks fine-tuning capability for precision shooting.