RETAY ACE-R BRZ/MOBL 12/28 3.5″
About this product
The RETAY ACE-R BRZ/MOBL 12/28 3.5″ is a purpose-built, high-volume 12-gauge shotgun engineered for professional and advanced recreational waterfowling in demanding conditions. This gas-operated, semi-automatic platform prioritizes durability and extreme-weather reliability over being a general-purpose shotgun, featuring a robust bronze Cerakote finish, modular loading system, and a 3.5-inch chamber for maximum payload flexibility. It is constructed specifically for shooters who demand a tool that performs under adverse pressure, with a design language and component selection reflecting its Turkish manufacturing pedigree focused on tactical and hunting endurance.
What is the RETAY ACE-R BRZ/MOBL 12/28 3.5″ used for?
This shotgun is engineered for high-volume waterfowl and goose hunting in extreme weather conditions. Its primary application is sustained fire over decoy spreads from layout blinds or boats where mud, moisture, and temperature swings are constant factors. The 28-inch barrel provides a balanced swing for passing shots, while the 3.5-inch chamber accommodates the heaviest steel and non-toxic loads for effective long-range patterning on late-season birds. This is not a field gun for upland game; its 8.2-pound unloaded weight and specific gas system tuning make it a specialist tool.
How does the RETAY ACE-R BRZ/MOBL compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The RETAY ACE-R BRZ/MOBL is a superior choice for rapid follow-up shots and harsh environments, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is better for controlled, balanced clay target shooting. The RETAY’s semi-automatic action allows for a faster second and third shot on a flock, with its gas system absorbing significant recoil from 3.5-inch magnums—a distinct advantage over an over-under’s direct mechanical impulse. However, the Stevens 555 offers immediate visual chamber verification and potentially more consistent pointability for disciplined, single-target engagements on the sporting clays course, where the RETAY’s operating system can feel less refined.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun has an unloaded weight of 8.2 pounds (131.2 oz) and an overall length of 49.5 inches. The 28-inch barrel is cold-hammer forged and features a 3.5-inch chamber, with a 14.5-inch length of pull on the synthetic stock. These dimensions place it squarely in the ‘long waterfowler’ category, making it manageable in a blind but noticeably front-heavy compared to a 26-inch field model. The weight is strategic, aiding in recoil mitigation during long strings of fire with heavy 1-5/8 ounce payloads.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the casual upland hunter, budget-conscious first-time buyer, or shooter seeking a lightweight, versatile field gun. Its weight, specialized gas tuning, and focus on harsh-environment durability make it overbuilt and cumbersome for walking miles for pheasants or grouse. Furthermore, shooters who prefer the simplicity and immediate safety check of a break-action like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge will find the semi-auto’s disassembly for cleaning more involved. It’s a tool for a specific, demanding job.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun, one extended Mobilchoke turkey-style choke tube (likely Improved Cylinder), a standard wrench, and a basic owner's manual. Notably, this configuration often ships with only the one choke, unlike some competitors that include a full set (Full, Mod, IC). Expect to invest an additional $80-120 in a waterfowl-specific choke tube set from Patternmaster or Carlson’s for optimal performance. The packaging is functional, not luxurious, reflecting the product's workhorse nature.
Is the RETAY ACE-R BRZ/MOBL worth it at $1079?
At $1079, it represents a focused value for the serious waterfowler who needs extreme-weather reliability, but it demands acceptance of its niche design trade-offs. You are paying for a durable gas system, corrosion-resistant finish, and a platform proven in wet, muddy conditions—features that exceed those found on entry-level autoloaders. However, for a shooter who also spends time on clays or upland hunting, a dual-purpose semi-auto from Beretta or a dedicated over-under like the Stevens line may offer better overall utility. This is a buy-for-purpose tool, not an all-rounder.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Bronze Cerakote finish provides superior corrosion resistance in salt marsh environments compared to standard bluing.
- Gas-operated system reduces felt recoil by an estimated 30-40% versus inertia-driven systems when firing 3.5-inch magnum loads.
- Modular loading system allows independent removal of the trigger group and bolt carrier for cleaning without full disassembly.
- 3.5-inch chamber accommodates the heaviest waterfowl payloads up to 1-5/8 oz of steel shot.
Trade-offs
- Weighs 8.2 lbs unloaded—nearly a full pound heavier than a comparable Beretta A300 Ultima, causing fatigue during long carries.
- Shipping configuration includes only one choke tube (often Improved Cylinder), requiring additional investment for specialized waterfowl patterns.
- Gas system is tuned for heavy loads and can be finicky with light 7/8 oz target loads, even after break-in.
- Synthetic stock has minimal texture; adding a traction pad or tape is advisable for wet-weather handling.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 193212033659 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | RACEBRBL-28 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 3 |
| color | Mossy Oak Bottomland |
| model | Ace-R |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Mobilchoke tubes?
- Yes, it uses the standard Benelli/Beretta Mobilchoke threading pattern, one of the most common and supported systems in the industry. This means you have immediate access to hundreds of aftermarket choke options from companies like Carlson's, Patternmaster, and Trulock. The included tube is typically a flush-mounted style, not an extended ported model.
- Does it fit in a standard 53-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, with room to spare. With an overall length of 49.5 inches, it will fit comfortably in nearly any standard hard or soft shotgun case designed for sporting guns. For maximum protection during airline travel, I recommend a case with at least 2 inches of internal foam padding, like those from Plano All-Weather or SKB.
- How long does break-in or磨合 period take?
- Expect a 100- to 150-round break-in period with full-power 2-3/4 or 3-inch field loads (minimum 1-1/8 oz at 1200 fps) to smooth the action. During this period, you may experience occasional failure to cycle with lighter, low-recoil target loads. After break-in, reliability with a wide range of 12-gauge ammunition improves significantly.
- Can I return it if I have functioning issues?
- Ironclad Armory's policy typically allows returns within 30 days for new, unfired items in original packaging. For functionality issues post-firing, you must engage RETAY's warranty service directly through their U.S. importer, which involves shipping the firearm to an authorized service center for inspection and repair—a process that can take 4-6 weeks.