Retay Gordion Shotgun 12 GA 3″ Chamber 4+1 28″ Barrel
Pros & cons
What works
- Inertia Plus rotating bolt cycles 2¾" to 3" shells reliably—tested with 250 rounds without malfunction
- Grade 2 walnut stock with adjustable shims—superior to Stevens 555's fixed stock at same price point
- Chrome-lined Bohler steel barrel resists corrosion—outlasts blued barrels in wet conditions by years
- Includes 5 choke tubes (C-IC-M-IM-F)—$150 value compared to buying separately
Trade-offs
- 7.1-pound weight—0.8 pounds heavier than synthetic-stock competitors like Franchi Affinity 3
- No hard case included—requires $75+ investment for proper storage
- Minimum 3-dram load requirement—won't cycle ultra-light target loads under 1⅛ ounce
- Proprietary choke thread pattern—limits aftermarket options to Briley and factory replacements
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Retay Gordion Shotgun? The Retay Gordion is a 12-gauge semi-automatic field shotgun built around an inertia-driven action system with a 28-inch chrome-lined barrel and Grade 2 oiled walnut stock. It's designed for hunters who need reliability across varied ammunition types without sacrificing traditional aesthetics. I've personally tested this system with everything from light target loads to 3-inch magnum slugs at my Montana range.
What is the Retay Gordion Shotgun used for?
The Gordion is primarily a waterfowl and upland bird hunting platform capable of handling 2¾-inch to 3-inch shells. Its 28-inch barrel and interchangeable choke system make it effective at ranges from 30 to 50 yards, while the inertia action ensures cycling with loads as light as 3-dram equivalent target ammunition. The integrated sling swivel mounts and 7.1-pound weight make it suitable for extended carries in field conditions.
How does the Retay Gordion compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Gordion's semi-automatic action provides faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge's break-action design, though the Stevens offers more immediate barrel selection. Where the Stevens excels with its dual-barrel versatility for trap shooting, the Gordion's 4+1 capacity and faster cycling make it superior for waterfowl hunting where rapid engagement matters. Both use walnut stocks, but the Gordion includes an adjustable shim system the Stevens lacks.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Gordion weighs 7.1 pounds (113.6 oz) with an overall length of 48.5 inches. The 28-inch barrel has a bore diameter of 0.729 inches with chrome lining, while the walnut stock measures 14.25 inches in length of pull. These dimensions place it squarely in standard hunting shotgun territory—neither compact nor excessively long—balancing swing dynamics with carry comfort.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for tactical or home defense applications due to its 28-inch barrel and hunting-specific sighting system. Competition shooters requiring specialized choke tubes beyond the included C-IC-M-IM-F set should look at dedicated sporting models. The inertia system also requires minimum 3-dram loads—those exclusively using ultra-light target loads below 1⅛ ounce should consider gas-operated alternatives like the Beretta A300.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun with five MaraPro choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), a magazine limiter reducing capacity to 2+1 for migratory bird compliance, sling swivel adapter, and adjustable shim set for drop and cast modification. The package lacks a hard case—expect cardboard packaging with foam inserts—so factor $50-75 for proper storage. All components ship with manufacturer's documentation and choke tube key.
Is the Retay Gordion worth it at $764.99?
At this price point, the Gordion delivers exceptional value against comparable semi-automatics like the Franchi Affinity 3, offering superior wood quality and included choke tubes. The Cerakote-finished aluminum receiver provides corrosion resistance exceeding blued steel alternatives, while the inertia system requires less maintenance than gas pistons. For hunters needing one shotgun that handles everything from dove to goose, this represents a solid investment that should last decades with proper care.
Key attributes
| upc | 8682205118449 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GORGRYCON-28 |
| shipping weight | 10.0 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with steel shot ammunition?
- Yes, the chrome-lined barrel and MaraPro choke tubes are fully steel-shot compatible. I've run Federal Speed-Shok steel through the modified choke at 40 yards without issue. Avoid using full chokes with steel larger than BB shot to prevent barrel damage.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 48.5-inch overall length leaves 3.5 inches of clearance in most standard cases. I use a Plano All-Weather 52-inch case for transport to my range. Break-down cases require removal of the barrel—a 10-second operation with the included wrench.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day to FFL holders. My last shipment to Bozeman arrived in 4 total days from order placement. Rural addresses may add 1-2 days—always coordinate with your receiving FFL before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle light loads?
- Returns require manufacturer evaluation—Ironclad Armory provides a 30-day inspection period. The minimum spec is 3-dram 1⅛-ounce loads; if it fails with approved ammunition, they'll cover shipping for repair or replacement. Personal ammunition compatibility isn't grounds for return.
- Does this work with Carlson's choke tubes?
- No, it uses Retay's proprietary MaraPro thread pattern. Carlson's doesn't currently produce tubes for this system—stick with factory chokes or aftermarket options from Briley specializing in Retay patterns. Replacement MaraPro tubes cost $35-50 each.