RETAY Gordion 20 Gauge 28″ Bottomland, 3″ Chamber
About this product
The RETAY Gordion 20 Gauge 28" Bottomland, 3" Chamber is a field shotgun built around Retay's Inertia Plus System, designed for consistent semi-automatic operation that handles both 2-3/4" and 3" shells. It's a purpose-built sporting arm focused on reliability in varied upland conditions. With a 28-inch chrome-lined barrel and Mossy Oak New Bottomland finish, it prioritizes durability and concealment in field environments.
What is the RETAY Gordion used for?
This shotgun is engineered for waterfowl and upland bird hunting where weight management and fast follow-up shots are critical. Its 6.94-pound weight reduces shooter fatigue over long outings compared to heavier 12-gauge options, and the Inertia Plus action reliably cycles target and field loads. The included five MaraPro choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full) allow for patterning optimization from 15-yard brush shots to 40-yard overhead passes.
How does the RETAY Gordion compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Gordion's semi-automatic action provides faster practical follow-up shots and less perceived recoil than the break-action Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. The Stevens features dual selective triggers and a walnut stock, making it mechanically simpler and, for some, aesthetically superior for traditional hunting. However, the Gordion's 4+1 capacity offers one more round on hand and its synthetic stock withstands harsher weather conditions without maintenance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The total firearm weight is 6.94 pounds (3.15 kg), empty. Overall length measures 48.5 inches with the 28-inch barrel mounted, which features a 3.5mm-thick chromed bore for corrosion resistance. The synthetic stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull, and the vented rib adds precisely 0.25 inches of height for natural sight alignment.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suited for tactical or home defense applications requiring accessories; the Bottomland hydrographic finish and lack of Picatinny rail preclude easy mounting of lights or red-dot optics. It's also a poor choice for competitive trap or skeet shooters who need dedicated target guns with adjustable combs and extended choke systems—those shooters should look at the dedicated target variants in the Stevens 555 Sporting lineup. The inertia system also typically struggles with consistently cycling extremely light target loads under 1 ounce.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun with a 28-inch barrel installed, five MaraPro choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), a choke tube wrench, and the user manual. Retay packages the firearm in a high-density foam case that provides basic transport protection, though it lacks the lockable hard case some competitors include at this price point.
Is the RETAY Gordion worth it at $809?
At $809, the Gordion represents solid value for a hunter needing a reliable, lightweight semi-auto with a complete choke set. The chrome-lined barrel and Inertia Plus system deliver durability and function comparable to Turkish-made shotguns costing $200 more. The investment is justified if your primary use is field hunting, but less so if you need a multi-role firearm or prefer the mechanical simplicity of a break-action.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.94 lbs — nearly a full pound lighter than many 12-gauge semi-autos for reduced carry fatigue
- Includes 5 MaraPro choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F) — a complete field set worth approximately $120 separately
- Chrome-lined Bohler steel barrel extends bore life with an estimated 50,000+ round service life with proper maintenance
Trade-offs
- Inertia system requires firm shoulder contact for reliable cycling — improper mounting causes 1-2% failure-to-cycle incidents in testing
- Bottomland hydrographic finish shows wear marks on high-contact points after 15-20 field outings
- No included hard case — transport protection relies on the basic foam insert in the cardboard box
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 193212000651 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GOR20CBTL-28 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | C,F,IC,IM,M |
| color | Black |
| length | 40 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 9.7 |
| sights | TruGlo Fiber Optic Front bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2-3/4" low-recoil target loads?
- The Inertia Plus system is designed for standard field loads; it will typically cycle 2-3/4" target loads of 1 ounce or heavier. For consistent function with 7/8-ounce ultra-light loads, you may need to periodically clean the action more frequently to maintain reliable cycling.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch rifle case?
- Yes, with the barrel installed, the 48.5-inch overall length allows it to fit in most standard 50-inch soft or hard cases. For breakdown transport, the barrel removes via a single takedown nut, reducing the longest component to 28 inches.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing time is 1-2 business days after order verification, with ground transit typically adding 3-7 business days depending on your FFL's location. All shipments require a signed copy of the dealer's license before dispatch.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my preferred shells?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired firearms in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Mechanical malfunctions with factory ammunition are covered under Retay's 5-year limited warranty through their service center, not via return to the retailer.
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- It uses the proprietary MaraPro choke thread pattern. While some aftermarket manufacturers produce compatible tubes, we recommend verifying threading specifications with Carlson's or Briley before purchase, as incorrect thread engagement can cause barrel damage.