Description
You’re in a flooded timber hole at first light, the air thick and cold. A pair of mallards are cupped and committed, dropping through the oaks. You mount, swing, and the shot breaks clean—the gun cycles fast, the recoil is a firm push, not a punch, and you’re already on the second bird. That’s the Retay Gordion in its element. It’s a purpose-built, inertia-driven semi-auto shotgun designed for the hunter who needs reliability when conditions are at their worst. At $821.56, it’s a serious tool for serious waterfowlers and turkey hunters.
So, what is the Retay Gordion 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3″ Inchamber, Mossy Oak Bottomland, 4rd? It’s a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun with a 24-inch barrel, chambered for 3-inch shells, featuring a Mossy Oak Bottomland camo finish and a 4+1 round capacity. It uses Retay’s inertia-driven operating system, which is known for running clean and reliable in muddy, wet environments where gas guns can falter. This one ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for our swamps, fields, and timber.
I’ve put a mix of light target loads and heavy 3-inch steel through this platform, and here’s what stands out. The inertia system is the star. It’s simpler than a gas gun—fewer moving parts, less to clean, and incredibly tolerant of fouling. After a morning in the marsh, you’re not scrubbing gas pistons; a quick wipe-down of the bolt and barrel is often enough. The 24-inch barrel is a sweet spot. It offers a fast swing for tight quarters in timber but still provides a smooth, consistent lead on longer passing shots over decoys. The Mossy Oak Bottomland isn’t just a pretty dip—it’s a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that actually blends in our Midwestern late-season landscapes.
The gun points naturally. The balance is just ahead of the receiver, making it feel lively in the hands. Recoil? Look, it’s a 12-gauge, so you feel it. But the Gordion’s design and the included Comfort Tech recoil pad do an excellent job of spreading that impulse out into a manageable shove. You can shoot a couple boxes of shells in a goose pit without feeling beat up the next day. It’s also drop-in ready for aftermarket chokes, using the common Beretta/Benelli Mobil thread pattern, so you can use your existing Carlson’s or Patternmaster tubes.
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 24″ |
| Operating System | Inertia-Driven |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
Pros: Incredibly reliable in dirty conditions. Low-maintenance design. The 24-inch barrel is versatile for both ducks and turkeys. The Bottomland camo is effective and tough. Points quickly and naturally.
Cons: The inertia system can be less forgiving with extremely light target loads compared to some gas guns. At just over 7 pounds unloaded, some hunters might prefer a lighter gun for long carries, though the weight helps with recoil management.
Who is this for? It’s for the Missouri waterfowler who doesn’t have time for a finicky gun when the birds are working. It’s for the turkey hunter who wants a dependable, fast-cycling shotgun that can handle magnum loads without a hiccup. If you value simplicity and reliability over adjustable gas systems and want a gun that works straight out of the box with minimal fuss, the Gordion deserves a hard look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the inertia system handle light target loads?
A: It runs most 1 1/8 oz, 2 3/4″ target loads just fine once broken in. For absolute reliability with the lightest 7/8 oz loads, a gas gun might be better. But for a mix of hunting and clays, it’s perfectly capable.
Q: Is the camo just on the furniture or the metal too?
A: The Mossy Oak Bottomland is a full coverage, dipped finish on both the synthetic stock and all metal surfaces, including the barrel and receiver. It’s a durable, all-weather coating.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: It typically includes a set of three flush-mounted chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full) that use the common Beretta/Benelli Mobil thread pattern. This gives you great aftermarket options from brands like Carlson’s and Trulock.
If you need a no-nonsense, all-weather shotgun that you can count on season after season, the Retay Gordion is a solid choice. Check availability at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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