RETAY USA Gordion Slug 12 Gauge 24″ Vent Rib Semi-Auto
Pros & cons
What works
- Drilled 1-in-34-inch twist rifled barrel — guarantees slug stabilization for sub-3-inch groups at 100 yards with quality ammo.
- Inertia Plus action — cycles 2¾-inch target loads up to 3-inch magnum slugs reliably without gas system adjustments.
- Integrated cantilever Picatinny rail — provides a solid, receiver-mounted optics platform with zero shift between barrel and sight.
Trade-offs
- Fixed rifled barrel only — cannot accept chokes for shot, making it a dedicated slug gun with no versatility for bird hunting or clays.
- Stock lacks sling studs — requires aftermarket drilling and hardware installation, adding $20-40 and gunsmithing time.
- Limited aftermarket support — holsters, custom stocks, and extended magazine tubes are scarce compared to Mossberg or Remington models.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The RETAY USA Gordion Slug 12 Gauge 24″ Vent Rib Semi-Auto is a specialized inertia-driven shotgun designed to deliver superior accuracy with rifled slugs from its dedicated 24-inch rifled barrel. Unlike most semi-auto shotguns built for shot patterns, this model's mechanical DNA is optimized from the receiver up for a single, stabilized projectile. This isn't a casual adaptation; it's a purpose-built tool for hunters and shooters who demand rifle-like consistency from a shotgun platform where regulations or terrain dictate its use.
What is the RETAY USA Gordion Slug used for?
Its primary use is for hunting medium to large game in jurisdictions restricting rifles, using a shotgun slug to achieve ethical, clean kills at approximately 100-125 yards. This is a deer, boar, or bear firearm for densely wooded areas, shotgun-only zones, or when local ordinances forbid centerfire rifles. The integrated cantilevered Picatinny rail directly mounts a low-power variable optic (LPVO) or magnified scope, turning it into a precision instrument for deliberate shots where a shotgun is legally mandated.
How does the RETAY USA Gordion Slug compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Gordion Slug is objectively superior for precise, repeatable slug placement with its gas-free, inertial semi-auto action and 1-in-34-inch twist rifled barrel. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is a brilliant break-action for shot and occasional slugs, this RETAY offers a dedicated 4+1 capacity of follow-up shots and a modern receiver rail for optics—making it a tactical hunter versus a classic sporter. The over-under is better for clays and bird hunting; the Gordion is a specialist for one specific, heavy-hitting task.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun balances at 6.9 pounds with an overall length of 44.5 inches from buttplate to the end of its 24-inch vent rib barrel. Its 7075 aluminum receiver keeps weight manageable for carrying afield, but the rifled steel barrel with a 0.725-inch muzzle diameter adds the necessary heft for stable shooting. For reference, that's about 4 inches shorter in overall length than a standard rifle but provides the full 24-inch sight radius critical for slug stability.
Who is this NOT for?
This gun is not for a shooter seeking a versatile, do-everything shotgun or someone on a tight budget. If your primary use involves trap, skeet, or upland bird hunting, this rifled barrel will shred shot patterns at roughly 60% less effective pellet spread than a smoothbore. Consider the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga for a lighter, more traditional field gun. This is also not an entry-level firearm; it demands an understanding of slug ballistics and optic zeroing.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, one 5-round magazine tube plug for compliance, one Allen wrench set for sight adjustment, and basic owner's documentation. The package notably lacks chokes—this is a fixed rifled barrel system—and does not include any optic mounting hardware or sling swivels. Expect to spend an additional $100–$300 on a quality scope mount, optic, and sling attachments to make this firearm field-ready for its intended role.
Is the RETAY USA Gordion Slug worth it at $879?
At $879, it represents a significant value for a shooter who specifically needs a dedicated, reliable semi-auto slug gun. Compared to converting a standard smoothbore with a rifled choke tube—a process that often costs $300+ and yields inconsistent results—this factory-integrated system guarantees superior mechanical alignment and accuracy. If your jurisdiction or hunting scenario legally requires a shotgun for big game, this investment outperforms makeshift solutions and provides a durable, purpose-built tool that will last for thousands of rounds with minimal maintenance.
Key attributes
| upc | 193212028730 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GORSLDNA-24 |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| sights | Adjustable |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 12-gauge slugs?
- Yes, it is specifically chambered to safely fire any standard 2¾-inch or 3-inch 12-gauge rifled slug from major manufacturers like Federal, Remington, or Winchester. The 1-in-34-inch twist rifled barrel is designed to stabilize these projectiles optimally, with best results typically from 1-ounce or heavier foster-style slugs.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch rifle case?
- Yes, with room to spare. At 44.5 inches overall length, the Gordion Slug will fit comfortably in most common 50-inch or 52-inch hard-sided rifle cases designed for AR-platform firearms. It leaves approximately 5-7 inches of extra space for magazines or accessories in the case.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- All firearm shipments from Ironclad Armory are processed within 48 business hours of cleared payment and FFL verification. Transit via ground carrier typically adds 4-7 business days, depending on your location relative to our Bozeman, MT facility. You will receive tracking information once your local FFL receives the shipment notification.
- Can I return it if I don’t like how it shoots?
- No, due to federal firearms regulations, we cannot accept returns on fired firearms unless there is a verifiable manufacturer defect. We strongly recommend researching the inertia-driven system and handling one at a local dealer if possible before purchase. All sales are final on functional, non-defective items per our compliance policy.
- Does this work with a standard shotgun sling?
- Yes, but you will need to install QD sling swivel cups or traditional sling studs, as the fixed pistol-grip stock does not come pre-drilled. The forend has standard mounting points that accept aftermarket 1-inch or 1.25-inch swivel stud kits from companies like Uncle Mike's or GrovTec.