Retay Gordion Slug 12 Gauge 24 inch Vent Rib 4+1
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Retay Gordion Slug 12 Gauge is a purpose-built semi-automatic slug shooting platform engineered with a rifled 24-inch vent-rib barrel and a 4+1 capacity for dedicated, high-consistency accuracy with single-projectile loads. It represents a focused alternative to a versatile over-under like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge and is designed specifically for shooters where precise slug placement is paramount. Its configuration bridges the gap between traditional hunting shotgun ergonomics and the precision-rifle handling demanded by modern slug disciplines.
What is the Retay Gordion Slug used for?
The Retay Gordion Slug's primary use is for accurate, repeatable engagement with sabot or rifled slugs at ranges from 75 to 125 yards, making it ideal for precision deer hunting in shotgun-only zones. This is enabled by its permanently rifled bore and integrated cantilevered rail, which allows for a solid, zeroed scope mount that doesn't shift with barrel removal. It's unsuitable for wing-shooting or any application requiring shot shells, as its rifled barrel will pattern poorly with birdshot or buckshot.
How does the Retay Gordion compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Retay Gordion outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge in sustained rapid-fire slug accuracy due to its semi-automatic action and fixed, long-slug-dedicated rail. The Stevens 555 is a far more versatile field gun for mixed clays and hunting, while the Gordion is a dedicated single-purpose tool that eliminates the variable of multiple barrel chokes and rib-mounted sight systems. For a shooter who needs both slug capability and the flexibility for upland birds, the over-under is the better choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Gordion Slug has an overall length of 44.5 inches and weighs 7.4 pounds, achieved through a synthetic stock and an aluminum alloy receiver to balance weight distribution for offhand shooting stability. Its 24-inch barrel provides a 3.7-inch sight radius between its adjustable phosphor iron sights, and the Picatinny rail section is 6.25 inches long, accommodating most LPVO or red-dot-and-magnifier setups without bridge mounts. This weight is approximately 1.2 pounds lighter than many comparable pump-action slug guns with laminate stocks, aiding in maneuverability.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the casual shooter seeking a general-purpose shotgun for clays, home defense, or waterfowl hunting, as its rifled barrel makes it incompatible with standard shot loads. It's also a poor choice for jurisdictions with magazine tube capacity restrictions for hunting, as its fixed 4+1 tube cannot be readily plugged to a lower capacity without disassembly. Hunters operating in dense brush where shots are under 50 yards would be better served by a more compact and forgiving smoothbore setup.
What's in the box?
Your purchase includes the Gordion Slug shotgun, one 5-round magazine tube plug for transport compliance, a basic chamber flag, and the factory-issued owner's manual covering takedown and Retay's Inertia-Plus system maintenance. Notably absent is any form of optic or mount—the integrated rail is bare, requiring the shooter to source and install their preferred sighting system to realize the platform's accuracy potential. The package ships in a generic, non-padded cardboard box, so invest in a proper hard case for transport.
Is the Retay Gordion worth it at $809?
At $809, the Gordion Slug's value hinges entirely on your need for a dedicated, out-of-the-box slug platform that requires no aftermarket gunsmithing for a scope-ready setup. It justifies its cost by combining a reliable inertia-driven action with a permanent, factory-installed cantilevered rail that would cost $200+ to have machined onto a standard shotgun. For a shooter transitioning from a scoped rifled barrel on a pump-action Remington 870, this package saves significant time and money on smithing fees and represents a direct upgrade in shot-to-shot speed.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Integral 6.25-inch cantilevered Picatinny rail eliminates $200+ gunsmithing for scope mounts
- Inertia-Plus action reliably cycles 2 3/4" and 3" magnum slugs with a 200-round break-in
- Weighs 7.4 lbs—1.2 lbs lighter than a scoped Remington 870 Express with a laminate stock
Trade-offs
- Fixed 4+1 magazine tube cannot be easily plugged for 2+1 hunting regulations without disassembly
- Rifled barrel is incompatible with shot loads—cannot be used for clays or bird hunting
- No included optic or iron sight adjustment tool—requires separate purchase for zeroing
Key attributes
| upc | 193212028723 |
| manufacturer | Retay USA |
| manufacturer part number | GORSLBLK24 |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| sights | Adjustable |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 2 3/4" and 3" 12-gauge slug ammo?
- Yes, the Inertia-Plus system is designed to reliably cycle both 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch magnum rifled or sabot slugs. For optimal function during the 200-round break-in period, I recommend using higher-velocity loads (over 1,400 fps). Subsonic or low-recoil slug loads may not generate enough energy for consistent bolt cycling.
- Does this fit in a standard 50-inch rifle case?
- Yes, with room to spare. Its overall length of 44.5 inches allows it to fit diagonally in most standard 50-inch takedown rifle cases. For optimal protection of the vent rib and sights, a hard case with foam cutouts is strongly advised over a soft bag.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Ironclad Armory's policy requires firearms to be returned unused and in new condition, with all original packaging and documentation, within 30 days for a full refund minus a 15% restocking fee. Once the firearm has been fired or the serial number has been registered on a 4473, it is not eligible for return—only warranty service for mechanical defects.
- Does this work with a standard choke tube wrench?
- No. The 24-inch barrel is permanently rifled with a fixed, non-removable choke constriction and no threading for choke tubes. Attempting to use any choke tool on the muzzle crown will damage the shallow-rifled crown and degrade accuracy. This barrel is designed exclusively for foster-type or sabot slugs.