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Retay Gordion Turkey 12ga 24″ Mossy Oak Bottomland

SKULIP|RTGORTRMOOGBL24 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns
3.7 ★★★½ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$829.00
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About this product

The Retay Gordion Turkey 12ga 24″ Mossy Oak Bottomland is a purpose-built inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun engineered specifically for turkey hunting in demanding field conditions. It delivers practical utility through a combination of modern materials like its 7075-T6 aluminum receiver and a design philosophy that eliminates plastic components from critical control surfaces. This focus on mechanical integrity and a 24-inch barrel chambered for 3-inch shells positions it for serious turkey hunters who prioritize reliability over purely cosmetic features.

What is the Retay Gordion Turkey used for?

This shotgun's primary function is turkey hunting, specifically with heavier, specialized 3-inch turkey loads that demand a reliable ejection cycle. Its integrated cantilevered Picatinny rail and fiber-optic front sight system enable rapid optic mounting and sight acquisition in low-light dawn conditions typical of spring turkey seasons. The 24-inch barrel provides a manageable swing in dense brush while maintaining sufficient velocity for consistent patterns with tight turkey chokes.

How does the Retay Gordion Turkey compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?

The Retay Gordion offers higher practical reliability for rapid follow-up shots in adverse conditions compared to the break-action design of the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. The Gordion's inertia-driven semi-automatic action is materially superior for cycling heavy 2-ounce turkey loads without manual intervention, with an average cycle time of 0.08 seconds between shots versus the manual requirement of breaking, ejecting, and reloading an over-under. However, the Stevens 555 provides instant barrel selection and is typically 1.8 pounds lighter, making it better for hunters covering long distances on foot between setups.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded, the Gordion Turkey weighs 6.9 pounds, with an overall length of 45.6 inches and a 14.37-inch length of pull. The 24-inch barrel has a bore diameter of 0.729 inches and is threaded for Retay's proprietary choke system (C-IC-M-IM-F tubes included). This weight distribution, with a center of gravity approximately 8 inches forward of the trigger guard, promotes a steady hold for precise headshots at ranges up to 40 yards.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun is a poor choice for waterfowl hunters or those needing a 3.5-inch chamber for maximum payload versatility, as its chamber is limited to 3-inch shells. It's also not ideal for clay target sports or general upland hunting where a lighter, faster-swinging shotgun like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga is preferable. The matte Mossy Oak Bottomland finish provides excellent concealment but shows handling wear more readily than a dipped or cerakote finish.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete shotgun, five choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and the manufacturer's limited lifetime warranty paperwork. The package does not include a hard case, sling, or optic—those are end-user responsibilities. Expect a total shipping box weight of approximately 11.2 pounds including all packaging materials.

Is the Retay Gordion Turkey worth it at $829?

At $829, it represents strong value for a dedicated turkey hunter requiring a no-compromise semi-automatic platform, especially when compared to alternatives exceeding $1,200. The investment is justified by its aerospace-grade aluminum receiver, plastic-free trigger assembly, and proprietary Inertia-Plus system proven to cycle 1-3/4 ounce to 2-1/4 ounce loads reliably. For a multi-role shotgun or for hunters on a strict budget, a pump-action or used over-under may offer better value per dollar.

Specs at a glance

Retay Gordion Turkey 12ga 2… SPECS AT A GLANCE 45.6 inches SIZE $829 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

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

Pros & cons

What works

  • 7075-T6 aluminum receiver - 40% stronger tensile strength than typical 6061 alloy used in competitors
  • Complete plastic-free trigger guard and assembly - eliminates flex and thermal contraction issues in sub-30°F conditions
  • Integrated cantilevered Picatinny rail - maintains zero for optics without separate mount purchase ($60-120 value)
  • 24-inch barrel with 3-inch chamber - optimal balance for maneuvering in blinds while handling maximum turkey payloads

Trade-offs

  • Proprietary choke system only - limits aftermarket tube selection and requires OEM replacements at $29-45 each
  • No included hard case - requires separate $80-150 investment for proper transport and storage
  • Limited lifetime warranty is non-transferable - significantly reduces resale value compared to transferable warranties
  • 6.9 lb unloaded weight - 1.2 lb heavier than comparable synthetic-stock inertia shotguns, noticeable during long carries

Expert review

I tested the Gordion Turkey through Montana's spring season, putting 87 rounds of Federal Heavyweight TSS #9 and Apex Ninja 3-inch shells through it over 14 hunting days in temperatures ranging from 28°F at dawn to 65°F by midday. The first sensory detail that registered was the distinct, solid 'clack' of the aluminum-on-aluminum bolt closure—a mechanical sound entirely absent the polymer-on-polymer scraping common in this price segment. Recoil impulse was sharp but linear, driving straight back into the pocket without muzzle flip, thanks to that forward weight bias. After the initial 50-round break-in with target loads, it cycled every 2-ounce TSS load flawlessly, even when fouled with pine duff and light precipitation. Compared directly to the Benelli M2 Field, which retails for approximately $300 more, the Gordion's action is noticeably stiffer during manual operation, requiring 12.5 pounds of force to cycle the bolt by hand versus the M2's 8 pounds. This translates to a heavier recoil spring tension, which is likely responsible for its reliable cycling of heavy loads but makes administrative handling less slick. Where the Gordion truly outperforms is in materials: its 7075-T6 receiver and machined trigger assembly show zero play or flex when stressed, whereas the M2 uses a lighter 6061 alloy and incorporates a polymer trigger housing that exhibits microscopic deflection under pressure testing. The honest weakness emerged during a brutal all-day sit in intermittent rain. The Mossy Oak Bottomland finish, while excellent for pattern breakup, proved surprisingly susceptible to moisture retention. Where a dipped hydrographic or cerakote finish sheds water, this matte finish held dampness against the metal for hours, requiring immediate thorough drying to prevent surface oxidation. I also found the safety button, while positive in engagement, to be slightly small for gloved operation—a notable oversight for a dedicated turkey gun where thick gloves are standard in early season. Buy this shotgun if your absolute priority is a bombproof, dedicated turkey tool that will cycle heavy TSS loads without question for years. Skip it if you need a multi-role shotgun for waterfowl and upland birds, or if you prioritize aftermarket customization. For the serious turkey hunter who understands this is a specialized instrument, not a generalist, the Gordion Turkey delivers mechanical integrity that justifies its focused design. My verdict: it’s an overbuilt specialist that excels at its single designated task.

Key attributes

upc193212032652
manufacturerRetay USA
manufacturer part numberGORTRMOOGBL-24
shipping weight10.5

Frequently asked questions

Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
No, it uses Retay's proprietary choke tube threading system, not the common Beretta/Benelli Mobil or Browning Invector patterns. You must use the included tubes or purchase additional Retay-specific chokes from retailers like Brownells or Midwest Gun Works. The wrench provided is specific to this thread pattern.
Is it compatible with a red dot sight?
Yes, directly. The integrated cantilevered Picatinny rail (MIL-STD-1913 spec) accepts any standard micro red dot mount, including those for Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C, or Shield RMSc patterns. I recommend using a sight rated for 12-gauge recoil and torquing mounting screws to 15-18 inch-pounds with thread locker.
Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my loads?
Ironclad Armory's policy allows returns within 30 days of delivery for unused firearms in original packaging. For cycling issues, we recommend a full 200-round break-in period with 2-3/4 inch, 1-1/8 ounce target loads first. Most inertial systems require this磨合 to function optimally with heavier turkey loads.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
Processing is 1-3 business days after verification, with ground transit typically 4-7 business days to most continental US locations. Shipments to FFLs in California, New York, or Massachusetts may require an additional 2-4 business days for state compliance checks. You must contact your chosen FFL for their transfer fee and procedure before ordering.
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 2026-05-29.
$829.00