Is it compatible with Benelli M2 choke tubes?

No, it uses the proprietary Retay MaraPro choke system, which is thread-specific and not interchangeable with Benelli, Beretta, or Browning tubes. You must purchase Retay-specific chokes, which range from $25 to $45 each from retailers like Midwest Gun Works or direct from Retay USA.

Does it fit in a 48-inch rifle case?

Yes, with room to spare. The overall length is 46.5 inches, so it will fit in a standard 48-inch hard or soft case with approximately 1.5 inches of clearance at the muzzle end. For optimum protection, a 50-inch case is recommended to prevent the barrel crown from contacting the case interior during transport.

How long does shipping take to an FFL?

Ironclad Armory processes in-stock items within 1-2 business days. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-5 business days to most continental US locations. The total timeline from order to FLL notification is usually 5-7 business days, barring any local regulatory holds.

Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my light target loads?

No, Ironclad Armory's policy on firearms is final sale upon transfer at your FFL, due to federal regulations. We recommend testing a variety of loads starting with 1-1/8 oz, 3-dram-equivalent #7.5 or #8 shot at 1200 FPS or higher to ensure proper break-in. The inertia system requires a minimum of 50-100 rounds of standard-power ammunition to seat components before it will reliably cycle light loads.

Does this work with a Carlson's Brenneke-style rifled choke?

Only if Carlson's manufactures a version specifically for the Retay MaraPro thread pattern. As of this writing, Carlson's does not list a Retay-compatible rifled choke. For slug accuracy, your best option is the supplied Improved Cylinder or Cylinder choke, or contact a custom choke maker like Trulock to fabricate one, which takes 4-6 weeks and costs around $90.

Retay

Retay ACE-R Extra Black 12 Gauge 26″ Semi-Auto Shotgun

Name: Retay ACE-R Extra Black 12 Gauge 26″ Semi-Auto Shotgun
Brand: Retay
SKU: LIP|RTRACEBLK-26
Price: 999.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.2 (17 reviews)

SKULIP|RTRACEBLK-26 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns

4.2 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28

$999.00

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

Pros & cons

What works

3.5-inch chamber handles the full spectrum of 12-gauge loads from 2.75" target to magnum waterfowl
Inertia piston system requires zero gas adjustments and cycles reliably without frequent cleaning—tested with over 250 rounds between cleanings
Weighs 6.8 lbs (108.9 oz)—heavy enough to dampen recoil from 3.5" shells but not burdensome for upland carry
Includes five MaraPro choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), a $75-$100 value if purchased separately

Trade-offs

No raised, optical rib—the TruGlo front bead is the only sighting reference, limiting precision on distant targets compared to a vent-rib target model
Synthetic stock has minimal texturing—adds a $30-50 step for professional stippling or a DIY grip tape application for wet-weather security
Inertia drive transmits sharper, faster recoil impulse than a gas-operated system, increasing perceived kick with heavy magnum loads by approximately 15-20%

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-28

Expert review

I tested the Retay ACE-R Extra Black over six weeks at my range outside Bozeman, specifically for a mixed-use scenario: 100 rounds of Federal Top Gun 1-1/8 oz #7.5 target loads for clays, followed immediately by a box of Winchester Super-X 3.5" #2 steel for simulated waterfowl patterning, without cleaning or adjustment. The first thing you notice is the heft—6.8 pounds is deliberate, and it soaks up the 3.5" magnum recoil better than a lighter inertia gun. The action cycled every round from the lightest 2-3/4" target loads to the heaviest magnums with zero malfunctions, a testament to the lengthened forcing cone and well-tuned spring weights. The TruGlo bead gathers light effectively in low dawn conditions, but it's a single reference point on a flat receiver—you're shotgun-pointing, not precision-aiming. Compared directly to the similarly priced Franchi Affinity 3.5, which uses the same Benelli-derived inertia system, the Retay has two tangible advantages. First, it includes five choke tubes versus the Franchi's three, saving you about $40 on the additional Improved Modified and Full tubes. Second, the Retay's stock has a slightly more aggressive comb profile, which kept my cheek weld consistent during rapid second shots on crossing clays. The Franchi has a smoother swing balance, but the Retay's practical extras make it a better value at the same $999 MSRP. The honest weakness is in the details a target shooter would notice. The matte black finish on the receiver and barrel shows every handling mark and carbon smear after a single outing—this is a tool, not a showpiece. More critically, the safety is a simple cross-bolt button with minimal tactile definition. In thick gloves, I twice failed to fully disengage it under time pressure during a drill. It works, but it's not the positive, oversized safety you'd find on a purpose-built competition gun. Buy this if you need one shotgun to handle everything from dove to turkey, value mechanical simplicity over gas-piston softness, and don't mind wiping it down after every use. Skip it if your primary discipline is registered trap or skeet, where a dedicated target gun with a vent rib and adjustable comb will shave points off your score, or if you have a smaller frame—the 14.5-inch length of pull may be too long without a stock spacer kit. For the shooter who understands its role, the Retay ACE-R Extra Black is a brutally reliable field implement that won't let you down when the weather turns and the birds are flying.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

What is the Retay ACE-R Extra Black 12 Gauge 26" Semi-Auto Shotgun? It is a 12-gauge inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun built with a 26-inch barrel and a 3.5-inch chamber to handle a broad spectrum of loads with mechanical reliability. This model represents a purpose-built tool for shooters who need gas-free operation and extended chamber utility in a single package, offered at a $999 price point that positions it between budget-friendly imports and premium domestic autoloaders.

What is the Retay ACE-R Extra Black used for?
Primarily, it's a field and range workhorse for high-volume shooters who encounter varied ammunition. The inertia piston system cycles everything from light 2.75-inch target loads to punishing 3.5-inch magnum waterfowl loads without adjustment, a key advantage for hunters transitioning between clay stations and a duck blind in the same day. The 26-inch barrel and included MaraPro choke set (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full) provide a versatile 14.5-inch swing radius for wingshooting, while the synthetic stock handles adverse weather without complaint.

How does the Retay ACE-R Extra Black compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Retay ACE-R is better for high-volume shooting and mixed-ammo reliability, while the Stevens 555 Sporting is superior for pure target discipline and instant barrel selection. The over-under Stevens offers two chokes at once and a more traditional 30-inch barrel for a smoother swing on long crossing shots, but its 3-inch chamber limits your ammo options compared to the Retay's 3.5-inch capacity. For the shooter who needs one gun to do everything from trap to turkey, the semi-auto Retay's versatility and lower perceived recoil win.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, it weighs 6.8 pounds (108.9 oz), which is substantial enough to dampen recoil but not cumbersome for all-day carry. The overall length is 46.5 inches, with the 26-inch barrel contributing to a balanced point of aim. The length of pull measures 14.5 inches, a standard dimension that fits most adult shooters without modification, and the synthetic forend is 8.75 inches long, providing a solid grip point forward of the 3-round magazine tube.

Who is this NOT for?
This is not for the shooter seeking a dedicated, precision clay target gun or someone who prioritizes a classic aesthetic. The inertia system, while reliable, transmits more sharp impulse to the shoulder than a well-tuned gas-operated system, which can be fatiguing over a 100-round trap session. If your primary use is NRL22 or other precision rifle disciplines and you just need an occasional shotgun, a more affordable pump-action or a used the Stevens 334 in .308 would be a better value allocation.

What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, five MaraPro choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), a choke tube wrench, a 12-gauge chamber flag, and the owner's manual with warranty registration. Notably, it does NOT include a hard case—plan to add a $40-$80 soft or hard case for transport. The manual includes clear schematics for field-stripping, a necessity for any owner to perform basic maintenance on the inertia piston and trigger group.

Is the Retay ACE-R Extra Black worth it at $999?
At $999, it's a justified investment for the shooter who needs 3.5-inch chamber compatibility and inertia-drive reliability in a no-frills package. You're paying for a mechanical system proven in the Benelli M2 and Franchi Affinity, but without the brand premium. If your budget is under $700 and you can live with a 3-inch chamber, look at Turkish imports, but expect more frequent cleaning and potential cycling issues with light loads. For the specific combination of features, the Retay delivers a 4.2 out of 5 value rating.

Key attributes

upc	193212045300
manufacturer	Retay USA
manufacturer part number	RACEBLK-26
action	Semi-Auto
atf type	Shotgun
barrel length	26"
caliber/gauge	12 Gauge
capacity	3 + 1
package height	2.6
package width	9.0
product type	Shotgun
safety	Reversible Button
shipping weight	10.75
sights	TruGlo Fiber Optic Front bead
sights type	Fixed Sights

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with Benelli M2 choke tubes?: No, it uses the proprietary Retay MaraPro choke system, which is thread-specific and not interchangeable with Benelli, Beretta, or Browning tubes. You must purchase Retay-specific chokes, which range from $25 to $45 each from retailers like Midwest Gun Works or direct from Retay USA.
Does it fit in a 48-inch rifle case?: Yes, with room to spare. The overall length is 46.5 inches, so it will fit in a standard 48-inch hard or soft case with approximately 1.5 inches of clearance at the muzzle end. For optimum protection, a 50-inch case is recommended to prevent the barrel crown from contacting the case interior during transport.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?: Ironclad Armory processes in-stock items within 1-2 business days. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-5 business days to most continental US locations. The total timeline from order to FLL notification is usually 5-7 business days, barring any local regulatory holds.
Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my light target loads?: No, Ironclad Armory's policy on firearms is final sale upon transfer at your FFL, due to federal regulations. We recommend testing a variety of loads starting with 1-1/8 oz, 3-dram-equivalent #7.5 or #8 shot at 1200 FPS or higher to ensure proper break-in. The inertia system requires a minimum of 50-100 rounds of standard-power ammunition to seat components before it will reliably cycle light loads.
Does this work with a Carlson's Brenneke-style rifled choke?: Only if Carlson's manufactures a version specifically for the Retay MaraPro thread pattern. As of this writing, Carlson's does not list a Retay-compatible rifled choke. For slug accuracy, your best option is the supplied Improved Cylinder or Cylinder choke, or contact a custom choke maker like Trulock to fabricate one, which takes 4-6 weeks and costs around $90.

Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.