Description
If you’re looking for a lightweight, fast-handling semi-auto that won’t wear you out on a long day in the field, the Retay Gordion Compact Shotgun 20 ga 3″ Chamber 4rd Magazine 24″ Barrel Black is worth a long, hard look. This is the lightest platform in Retay’s lineup, built around their proven Straight Line Inertia Transfer Action and patented Inertia Plus bolt system. It’s a no-nonsense tool for the shooter who values reliability and quick handling over gimmicks.
| Manufacturer | Retay |
|---|---|
| Model | Gordion Compact |
| Material | All-alloy receiver, synthetic stock |
| Compatibility | 20 ga 2.75″ and 3″ shells |
| Finish | Black, matte |
| Weight | 5.4 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Straight Line Inertia Transfer Action – This design keeps recoil traveling straight back into your shoulder, not your cheek or hands. Why it matters: less muzzle rise means faster follow-up shots on a flushing covey of quail.
- Inertia Plus Bolt with Rollover Torsion Spring – Retay’s patented system gives a positive, reliable cycling action that runs clean and doesn’t rely on gas ports. Why it matters: you can shoot in dirty, dusty conditions without worrying about fouling jamming the gun.
- Premium Plastic-Free Receiver Trigger and Integrated Trigger Guard – The single-piece alloy receiver houses a metal trigger group with no plastic parts. Why it matters: it’s built to last a lifetime of hard use, and the trigger pull is crisp and consistent.
- Easy Out Magazine Unloading System – A simple push-button mechanism lets you unload the magazine tube quickly without cycling shells through the action. Why it matters: safe, fast unloading at the end of the day or when crossing fences.
- Compact 24″ Barrel and 4-Round Magazine Capacity – The shorter barrel makes the Gordion swing fast in tight cover, and the 4+1 capacity gives you enough rounds for a dove field or a turkey blind. Why it matters: you get a nimble, balanced shotgun that won’t hang up on brush.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for the southern bird hunter who spends more time walking than standing. It’s ideal for dove fields, quail woods, and even early-season turkey hunts where you need a lightweight gun that points naturally. If you’re a smaller-framed shooter or someone who prefers a 20 ga for its lower recoil and lighter weight, the Gordion Compact fits the bill. It’s also a fine choice for a new shooter graduating from a .410 to a 20 ga, thanks to its manageable weight and soft-shooting inertia system.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: At just 5.4 lbs, it’s one of the lightest semi-auto 20 ga shotguns on the market, making it a joy to carry all day.
- Pro: The Inertia Plus system is exceptionally reliable with a wide range of loads, from light target shells to heavy 3″ magnums.
- Pro: The metal trigger group and alloy receiver are a step above many budget semi-autos that use plastic parts.
- Con: The compact 24″ barrel and shorter length of pull may not suit taller shooters who prefer a longer, more stretched-out stance. Honest truth: this gun is designed for smaller frames or close-cover work, not for a 6’4″ shooter in an open field.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | Retay Gordion Compact 20 ga | Benelli Montefeltro 20 ga | Franchi Affinity 20 ga |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 5.4 lbs | 5.8 lbs | 5.6 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 24″ | 26″ | 24″ |
| Action Type | Inertia Plus (Rollover Torsion Spring) | Inertia Driven | Inertia Assisted |
| Receiver Material | Alloy, plastic-free trigger group | Alloy | Alloy |
| Price | $729.00 | $1,199.00 | $899.00 |
The Gordion undercuts both the Benelli and Franchi on price while offering a lighter weight and a patented bolt system that’s proven in the field. You’re getting a premium inertia gun without the premium price tag.
FAQ
Will this shotgun cycle light target loads reliably?
Yes, the Inertia Plus system is designed to handle a wide range of shell pressures. Per Retay specs, it will cycle 2.75″ target loads down to 1 oz. with no issues, as long as the gun is properly lubricated. Some shooters find that a 100-round break-in period helps smooth things out even more.
Is the stock adjustable for length of pull?
No, the stock is a fixed synthetic design with a standard length of pull of about 13.5″. If you need a shorter or longer pull, you can add a recoil pad spacer or have a gunsmith modify it. The compact nature of the gun is part of its appeal for smaller shooters.
Can I use this shotgun for turkey hunting?
Absolutely. The 24″ barrel and 3″ chamber make it a fine choice for turkey hunting, especially in tight setups where you need to swing fast. The 4-round magazine gives you enough capacity for a gobbler and a follow-up shot. Just make sure to pattern it with your preferred turkey loads before the season.
How do I clean the inertia system?
Cleaning is straightforward. Field strip the gun by removing the barrel and bolt assembly. Wipe down the bolt and inertia spring with a light coat of oil. Retay recommends against heavy greasing—just a thin film on the moving parts. The Easy Out system makes unloading the magazine tube a breeze before you start cleaning.
Why Buy from Us?
- ✓ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✓ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day return policy, no hassle
- ✓ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Browse more options in our Semi Auto Shotguns category, or check out our 20 Gauge Shotguns for other lightweight bird guns. For the dedicated hunter, see our Bird Hunting Gear section.
Last updated: April 2026
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