Description
The Retay USA Ace 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun 26-inch is a full-size, inertia-driven shotgun built for reliable cycling with light target loads and heavy magnum shells alike. Its lengthened forcing cone and Airy Pad recoil system make it a comfortable choice for shooters who want to spend a full day at the range or in the field without getting beat up. This shotgun accepts 3.5-inch shells and holds 3+1 rounds, giving you the versatility to hunt waterfowl, turkey, or shoot clays.
| Manufacturer | Retay USA |
|---|---|
| Model | Ace |
| Material | Synthetic stock with Mossy Oak Bottomland camo finish |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge ammunition, accepts up to 3.5-inch shells |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland camo (stock) and matte black (barrel/receiver) |
| Weight | Approximately 7.2 pounds (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Inertia Piston System – Why it matters: This gas-free action stays cleaner and cycles more reliably across a wide range of loads, from light 2.75-inch target shells to heavy 3.5-inch magnums, without needing constant cleaning.
- Lengthened Forcing Cone – Why it matters: Reduces felt recoil and shot deformation, giving you tighter, more consistent patterns and a smoother shooting experience during long days afield.
- Airy Pad Recoil System – Why it matters: Absorbs up to 30% more recoil than standard pads, so younger or smaller-framed shooters can shoot comfortably without flinching.
- Adjustable Shim Kit – Why it matters: Lets you customize drop and cast to fit your individual cheek weld, improving accuracy and comfort for family members of different sizes.
- 26-Inch Vent Rib Barrel – Why it matters: Provides a balanced swing for fast target acquisition on clays or flushing birds, while the ventilated rib reduces mirage on hot days.
Who It’s For
The Retay USA Ace is built for families and beginner shooters who want a do-it-all semi-auto shotgun that won’t punish them with heavy recoil. It’s ideal for youth shooters moving up from a 20 gauge, women looking for a reliable field gun, and hunters who need one gun for ducks, turkeys, and doves. The adjustable stock and soft recoil pad make it a great choice for teaching new shooters proper form without fear of the kick.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Cycles light target loads reliably (even 1-ounce target loads), easy to clean and maintain, adjustable stock fits multiple shooters, Airy Pad recoil system really works.
- Cons: The inertia system can be finicky with sub-1-ounce loads if the gun isn’t shouldered firmly; also, the camo finish may wear on high-contact areas over time (common with synthetic camo).
Comparison
| Feature | Retay USA Ace | Beretta A300 Outlander | Stoeger M3000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Inertia (self-cleaning) | Gas-operated | Inertia |
| Chamber | 3.5-inch | 3-inch | 3-inch |
| Recoil Pad | Airy Pad (reduces recoil 30%) | Soft pad | Standard pad |
| Stock Adjustability | Shim kit included | Shim kit included | Fixed |
| Weight | 7.2 lbs | 7.8 lbs | 6.8 lbs |
| Price | $1,079 | $999 | $599 |
| Best For | Families, beginners, waterfowl | Target shooting, hunting | Budget hunters, doves |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this shotgun cycle light target loads reliably?
Yes, the Retay USA Ace cycles most 1-ounce target loads and even some 7/8-ounce loads, as long as you shoulder the gun firmly. The inertia system needs a solid shoulder pocket to function. If you’re teaching a new shooter, have them press the stock tight into their shoulder before pulling the trigger.
Can I use this shotgun for waterfowl hunting?
Absolutely. The 3.5-inch chamber handles steel, bismuth, and other non-toxic shot loads. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo blends into marsh and field environments, and the 26-inch barrel swings well on passing ducks.
How do I adjust the stock for a better fit?
The Retay USA Ace comes with a shim kit and instructions. You remove the stock bolt, swap shims to change drop and cast, then reassemble. It takes about 10 minutes. This lets you fit the gun to different family members easily.
Is this shotgun suitable for left-handed shooters?
The Ace is a right-handed design with a right-side eject. Left-handed shooters can still use it, but ejected shells may cross their face. Retay does not offer a left-hand version at this time.
What is the warranty on this shotgun?
Retay USA offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Ace for the original owner. It covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. Check the manual for full details.
Why Choose the Retay USA Ace?
If you’re looking for a retay usa ace 12 gauge semi-auto shotgun 26-inch that your whole family can shoot, this is it. The adjustable stock, soft recoil system, and reliable inertia action make it a smart investment for years of hunting and target shooting. It’s one of the few shotguns in this price range that comes with a 3.5-inch chamber and a camo finish.
According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), over 1.2 million new hunters entered the sport in the last two years, and many of them started with a shotgun like this. The Retay USA Ace is built to grow with them.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Explore more in our Semi Auto Shotguns or 12 Gauge Shotguns collection. Also check out our Waterfowl Hunting Gear.





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