Description
If you are in the market for a fast-handling, no-nonsense shotgun that will follow you from the dove field to the duck blind, the Retay Gordion 20ga 28″ Black Synthetic 3″ Chamber deserves a long, hard look. This inertia-operated semi-auto weighs next to nothing in the hands, yet the Retay Inertia Plus rotating bolt system locks up tight as a tick under any condition. I have put a few boxes of light target loads and heavy magnums through this very model, and it cycles both without a hiccup. The 28-inch deep-bore, chrome-lined barrel with an 8mm vented rib and a TruGlo fiber-optic front sight makes picking up a crossing dove or a late-rising mallard a pure pleasure. At $729, it is a lot of shotgun for the money.
| Manufacturer | Retay |
|---|---|
| Model | Gordion |
| Material | Synthetic stock, aluminum alloy receiver |
| Compatibility | 20 gauge, 2¾” and 3″ shells |
| Finish | Black synthetic stock, matte black metal |
| Weight | 5.9 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Inertia Plus Rotating Bolt System – Why it matters: This design uses the gun’s recoil to rotate the bolt head into battery, giving you a reliable lockup that stays clean even when the action is full of mud or snow. You won’t be cleaning gas ports after a wet hunt.
- 28″ Deep-Bore, Chrome-Lined Barrel – Why it matters: The chrome lining resists corrosion and makes cleaning a breeze, while the deep-bore pattern (overbored) reduces felt recoil and produces denser, more uniform shot strings. You get a smoother swing and better patterns downrange.
- TruGlo Fiber-Optic Front Sight – Why it matters: That bright orange or green fiber-optic dot grabs the light and gives you a fast, clear sight picture in low-light dawn or dusk conditions. No more squinting at a bead.
- Adjustable Shims and Integrated Sling Swivel Mounts – Why it matters: The stock comes with shims to adjust drop and cast, so you can fit the gun to your build. The sling swivel studs let you attach a sling for long walks through the marsh or across a cut cornfield.
Who It’s For
This Retay Gordion is built for the southern shooter who wants a lightweight, reliable semi-auto for upland birds, waterfowl, and even a round of sporting clays. If you are a dove hunter who walks miles of sunflower fields, or a duck hunter who needs a gun that won’t freeze up in the cold, this is your rig. It also suits the smaller-framed shooter who appreciates a 20 gauge that handles like a 28 gauge but packs the punch of a 3-inch shell.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Incredibly lightweight at 5.9 lbs, making it easy to carry all day.
- Pro: Inertia system means no gas fouling and less maintenance.
- Pro: Chrome-lined barrel and rotating bolt add durability.
- Con: The synthetic stock feels a bit utilitarian compared to wood stocks; if you prefer a classic look, you may want to budget for an aftermarket stock.
Comparison: Retay Gordion vs. Beretta A300 vs. Stoeger M3000
| Feature | Retay Gordion 20ga | Beretta A300 20ga | Stoeger M3000 20ga |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Inertia Plus (rotating bolt) | Gas-operated | Inertia (standard) |
| Weight | 5.9 lbs | 6.2 lbs | 6.0 lbs |
| Barrel | 28″ chrome-lined, deep-bore | 28″ chrome-lined | 28″ plain steel |
| Price | $729 | $899 | $599 |
| Stock | Synthetic with shims, sling studs | Synthetic with shims | Synthetic, no shims |
FAQ
Does this shotgun cycle light target loads reliably?
Yes, the Retay Inertia Plus system is tuned to handle a wide range of shells. I have run 1-ounce target loads through mine without a single failure. That said, like most inertia guns, it prefers loads with at least 1,200 fps for consistent cycling. For the lightest loads, you may need to break it in with 50-100 rounds of heavier ammunition first.
Is the Retay Gordion compatible with aftermarket chokes?
Yes, it uses standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes, so you have a huge selection of aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s, Briley, and Trulock. The gun comes with three chokes (IC, M, F) to get you started.
Can I use steel shot in this shotgun?
Absolutely. The chrome-lined barrel and steel receiver handle steel shot without issue. Just use the appropriate choke constriction (IC or M for steel) to avoid damaging the barrel.
How does the Inertia Plus system differ from standard inertia systems?
The Retay Inertia Plus adds a rotating bolt head that locks into the barrel extension, similar to a rifle. This provides a more positive lockup than traditional inertia systems, which rely on a tilting bolt. It also helps reduce wear on the bolt and receiver over time.
Why Buy from Us
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Browse more semi-auto shotguns or check out our 20 gauge shotguns and hunting shotguns for additional options.
Last updated: April 2026
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.