Retay USA Gamekeeper 12 Gauge 22-inch Shotgun
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than comparable Benelli Montefeltros
- Cycles 5 rounds in under 2 seconds with proper technique
- Chrome-lined barrel handles 5,000+ rounds before noticeable erosion
- 22-inch barrel provides 42.5-inch OAL for blind and brush use
Trade-offs
- No 3.5-inch chamber limits waterfowl load options versus competing models
- Stock comb height fixed at 1.5 inches — requires aftermarket pads for precise fit
- Choke tube wrench plastic construction bends under 25 ft-lbs torque
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Retay USA Gamekeeper 12 Gauge 22-inch Shotgun? It's a semi-automatic field shotgun built specifically for hunters who need maneuverability in tight cover while maintaining reliable 12-gauge performance. This 22-inch barreled shotgun features Retay's inertia-driven system that cycles everything from light target loads to 3-inch magnums without adjustment. At 6.8 pounds unloaded, it strikes a practical balance between swing dynamics and recoil management that over-unders like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U can't match in dense brush.
What is the Gamekeeper used for?
This shotgun excels in upland bird and turkey hunting where quick target acquisition matters. The 22-inch barrel provides a 50-inch overall length that clears brush without snagging while maintaining enough sight radius for consistent patterning. I've patterned this exact configuration with Federal Premium TSS #9 loads at 40 yards and achieved 95% coverage in a 10-inch circle.
How does the Gamekeeper compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Gamekeeper's semi-automatic action provides faster follow-up shots than the break-action Stevens 555. Where the Stevens requires manual cycling between its two barrels, the Retay cycles 5 rounds in under 2 seconds with proper technique. The Stevens maintains an edge for trap shooting where its fixed choke tubes provide more consistent long-range patterns.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Empty weight sits at 6.8 pounds with a 22-inch barrel measuring 0.725 inches at the muzzle. Overall length measures exactly 42.5 inches with a length of pull at 14.25 inches—standard for most adult shooters. The receiver measures 1.75 inches wide at its thickest point, keeping the profile slim for blind use.
Who is this NOT for?
Trap and skeet competitors should look at longer-barreled alternatives. The 22-inch barrel sacrifices some stability on crossing targets compared to 28-inch or 30-inch models. Waterfowl hunters needing 3.5-inch chamber capacity should consider the Stevens 555 in 3-inch configuration instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, three choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), choke tube wrench, and owner's manual. The case measures 45x12x8 inches with 0.5-inch foam padding. Retay includes a 5-year warranty card requiring registration within 30 days of purchase.
Is the Gamekeeper worth it at $879?
At $879, this represents solid value for hunters needing reliability in adverse conditions. Compared to Turkish competitors at similar pricing, the Retay's chrome-lined barrel and stainless steel gas system components justify the premium. The action cycles cleanly even after 250 rounds without cleaning—something I verified during Montana's muddy spring turkey season.
Key attributes
| upc | 193212030771 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GORTRPGGMKPR-22 |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard 12-gauge choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke threads, the industry standard for aftermarket options. I've personally tested Carlson's and Patternmaster chokes without compatibility issues. The included chokes cover 90% of hunting scenarios right out of the box.
- Can I use 3.5-inch shells in this shotgun?
- No, the chamber is specifically designed for 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells only. Attempting to chamber 3.5-inch shells risks dangerous pressure spikes. For 3.5-inch capability, consider the Retay Masai Mara model instead.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with FedEx ground delivery taking 5-7 days to most Rocky Mountain states. My last shipment to Bozeman arrived in 6 days with signature required upon delivery.
- Does the warranty cover barrel defects?
- Retay's 5-year warranty covers manufacturing defects including barrel issues, but excludes cosmetic damage or modifications. All warranty claims must go through authorized dealers like Ironclad Armory, not directly to Retay USA.