Retay Gordion 12 Ga 28″ Inertia Shotgun Max-5

Description

You know that feeling when you shoulder a shotgun and it just… fits? That’s the first thing I noticed with the Retay Gordion 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″ Inertia, Max-5, 4rd. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of target loads and some heavier 3-inch shells through it, and it’s proven itself as a reliable, no-fuss inertia-driven workhorse. If you’re looking for a semi-auto shotgun that handles everything from clays to waterfowl without breaking a sweat, this one deserves a long look.

The Retay Gordion is a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built on a proven inertia operating system. It features a 28-inch barrel, handles 3-inch shells, comes in a Max-5 camouflage pattern, and has a 4+1 round capacity. It’s designed for hunters who need a lightweight, reliable gun that cycles everything from light target loads to heavy magnums without adjustment. At $807.46, it sits in a competitive spot for a feature-rich, camo-finished hunting shotgun.

Let’s talk about that inertia system. Look, I’ve run plenty of gas guns, but there’s a beautiful simplicity to inertia operation. The Gordion uses the recoil of the fired shell to cycle the action, which means fewer moving parts, less fouling, and easier cleaning. After a dusty day in the field or a wet morning in a blind, you’ll appreciate not having to scrub out gas pistons and ports. I ran a mix of 2¾-inch target loads and some 3-inch waterfowl loads back-to-back, and it ate them all without a hiccup—no gunsmithing required to switch between them. The action stays cleaner, too, which is a real win for maintenance.

The 28-inch barrel is a sweet spot for versatility. It provides a smooth, consistent swing for pass-shooting ducks or breaking clays, offering a longer sight plane that helps with accuracy. Weighing in at a hair under 7 pounds, the Gordion is easy to carry all day without feeling like you’re lugging a log. The balance point is just ahead of the receiver, making it feel lively and responsive in your hands, not muzzle-heavy.

Then there’s the finish. The Max-5 camo isn’t just a dip; it’s a durable coating that covers the entire receiver, barrel, and stock. It’s effective breakup for timber, marsh edges, and agricultural fields—common scenes here in the Midwest. The stock has an adjustable comb system, a feature you often see on much more expensive guns. You can dial in the perfect cheek weld for your preferred sight picture, whether you’re using the supplied fiber-optic front sight or planning to add an optic. The textured grip areas on the forend and pistol grip give you a solid hold, even with wet or cold hands.

Gauge	12 Gauge
Chamber	3″
Barrel Length	28″
Operating System	Inertia-Driven Semi-Auto
Capacity	4+1 Rounds
Finish	Max-5 Camo

Pros: The inertia system is supremely reliable and low-maintenance. The adjustable comb is a fantastic feature at this price. The Max-5 camo is well-applied and tough. It’s lightweight and points naturally.

Cons: The 4-round tube capacity might feel limited for some extended waterfowl hunts compared to models with extended tubes. The stock spacers for length of pull are included, but changing them requires a tool.

So who is this for? It’s for the Missouri waterfowler who spends weekends in a layout blind, the upland hunter who covers miles, and the shooter who wants one reliable semi-auto for clays and hunting. If you dislike cleaning intricate gas systems but demand reliability, this is your gun. It’s also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s and Patternmaster, so you can tailor your constriction for any task.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the inertia system really handle light target loads reliably?

A: Yes. I’ve personally run standard 1-ounce, 2¾-inch target loads through it without issue. The inertia system is designed to cycle a wide range of loads without any manual adjustments, which is a major advantage over some gas systems.

Q: Can the magazine tube be extended for more capacity?

A: Not easily in a traditional sense. The Gordion’s design integrates the camo finish and tube cap. For more capacity, you’d be looking at a different model or aftermarket solutions that may affect the finish and warranty. The 4+1 setup is ideal for most hunting regulations and scenarios.

Q: Is the camo finish durable?

A: Very. It’s a ceramic-based coating that resists scratches, moisture, and solvents far better than a simple hydro-dip. It’s built to handle the abrasion of reeds, duck boat racks, and inclement weather.

This Retay Gordion setup is a serious contender for a do-it-all hunting shotgun. It’s ready to go right out of the box, ships to Missouri and compliant US states, and brings high-end features like an adjustable comb to a very fair price point. If a lightweight, low-maintenance semi-auto that handles any shell you feed it sounds right for your season, check it out.