Retay Gordion Turkey 12ga 24″ Mossy Oak Bottomland
About this product
The Retay Gordion Turkey 12ga 24″ Mossy Oak Bottomland is a purpose-built inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun engineered specifically for turkey hunting in demanding field conditions. It delivers practical utility through a combination of modern materials like its 7075-T6 aluminum receiver and a design philosophy that eliminates plastic components from critical control surfaces. This focus on mechanical integrity and a 24-inch barrel chambered for 3-inch shells positions it for serious turkey hunters who prioritize reliability over purely cosmetic features.
What is the Retay Gordion Turkey used for?
This shotgun's primary function is turkey hunting, specifically with heavier, specialized 3-inch turkey loads that demand a reliable ejection cycle. Its integrated cantilevered Picatinny rail and fiber-optic front sight system enable rapid optic mounting and sight acquisition in low-light dawn conditions typical of spring turkey seasons. The 24-inch barrel provides a manageable swing in dense brush while maintaining sufficient velocity for consistent patterns with tight turkey chokes.
How does the Retay Gordion Turkey compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Retay Gordion offers higher practical reliability for rapid follow-up shots in adverse conditions compared to the break-action design of the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. The Gordion's inertia-driven semi-automatic action is materially superior for cycling heavy 2-ounce turkey loads without manual intervention, with an average cycle time of 0.08 seconds between shots versus the manual requirement of breaking, ejecting, and reloading an over-under. However, the Stevens 555 provides instant barrel selection and is typically 1.8 pounds lighter, making it better for hunters covering long distances on foot between setups.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the Gordion Turkey weighs 6.9 pounds, with an overall length of 45.6 inches and a 14.37-inch length of pull. The 24-inch barrel has a bore diameter of 0.729 inches and is threaded for Retay's proprietary choke system (C-IC-M-IM-F tubes included). This weight distribution, with a center of gravity approximately 8 inches forward of the trigger guard, promotes a steady hold for precise headshots at ranges up to 40 yards.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is a poor choice for waterfowl hunters or those needing a 3.5-inch chamber for maximum payload versatility, as its chamber is limited to 3-inch shells. It's also not ideal for clay target sports or general upland hunting where a lighter, faster-swinging shotgun like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga is preferable. The matte Mossy Oak Bottomland finish provides excellent concealment but shows handling wear more readily than a dipped or cerakote finish.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun, five choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and the manufacturer's limited lifetime warranty paperwork. The package does not include a hard case, sling, or optic—those are end-user responsibilities. Expect a total shipping box weight of approximately 11.2 pounds including all packaging materials.
Is the Retay Gordion Turkey worth it at $829?
At $829, it represents strong value for a dedicated turkey hunter requiring a no-compromise semi-automatic platform, especially when compared to alternatives exceeding $1,200. The investment is justified by its aerospace-grade aluminum receiver, plastic-free trigger assembly, and proprietary Inertia-Plus system proven to cycle 1-3/4 ounce to 2-1/4 ounce loads reliably. For a multi-role shotgun or for hunters on a strict budget, a pump-action or used over-under may offer better value per dollar.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 7075-T6 aluminum receiver - 40% stronger tensile strength than typical 6061 alloy used in competitors
- Complete plastic-free trigger guard and assembly - eliminates flex and thermal contraction issues in sub-30°F conditions
- Integrated cantilevered Picatinny rail - maintains zero for optics without separate mount purchase ($60-120 value)
- 24-inch barrel with 3-inch chamber - optimal balance for maneuvering in blinds while handling maximum turkey payloads
Trade-offs
- Proprietary choke system only - limits aftermarket tube selection and requires OEM replacements at $29-45 each
- No included hard case - requires separate $80-150 investment for proper transport and storage
- Limited lifetime warranty is non-transferable - significantly reduces resale value compared to transferable warranties
- 6.9 lb unloaded weight - 1.2 lb heavier than comparable synthetic-stock inertia shotguns, noticeable during long carries
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 193212032652 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GORTRMOOGBL-24 |
| shipping weight | 10.5 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- No, it uses Retay's proprietary choke tube threading system, not the common Beretta/Benelli Mobil or Browning Invector patterns. You must use the included tubes or purchase additional Retay-specific chokes from retailers like Brownells or Midwest Gun Works. The wrench provided is specific to this thread pattern.
- Is it compatible with a red dot sight?
- Yes, directly. The integrated cantilevered Picatinny rail (MIL-STD-1913 spec) accepts any standard micro red dot mount, including those for Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C, or Shield RMSc patterns. I recommend using a sight rated for 12-gauge recoil and torquing mounting screws to 15-18 inch-pounds with thread locker.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my loads?
- Ironclad Armory's policy allows returns within 30 days of delivery for unused firearms in original packaging. For cycling issues, we recommend a full 200-round break-in period with 2-3/4 inch, 1-1/8 ounce target loads first. Most inertial systems require this磨合 to function optimally with heavier turkey loads.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing is 1-3 business days after verification, with ground transit typically 4-7 business days to most continental US locations. Shipments to FFLs in California, New York, or Massachusetts may require an additional 2-4 business days for state compliance checks. You must contact your chosen FFL for their transfer fee and procedure before ordering.