ACE/ACE R

The Retay ACE is a feature-loaded inertia-driven semi-auto built for waterfowlers who want big-gun performance without a big-gun price tag. Offered in both a rounded receiver and a humpback-style ACE Type R, it combines a deep-bored, lengthened-forcing-cone barrel, cut-out loading port, oversized controls, and Retay’s “airy” butt pad and soft comb to create a very comfortable, modern-feeling shotgun. The patented Inertia Plus system is designed to eliminate the dreaded “inertia click” by driving the bolt fully into battery, even if it gets bumped. In testing, the ACE handled everything from 1 oz target loads to 3½" magnums, with light target loads cycling well in normal use and only showing minor hesitation when run unrealistically fast.

In the hands, the ACE is relatively light (around 7¼ lbs), lively, and nicely balanced, with good forend contours and a grip that feels secure, even if larger hands may brush the receiver slightly. Recoil is impressively manageable for an inertia gun, staying straight back and very shootable even with 3" and 3½" hunting loads. The trigger breaks at roughly 6 lbs with a bit of pre-travel—totally workable for hunting and general shooting, though it can slightly hold back ultra-fast speed drills. Build quality looks strong: clean machining, a clever drop-out trigger group, and simple teardown all point to a well-thought-out design. Overall, the Retay ACE delivers a ton of features, versatility, and shootability for the money, making it a very compelling option for hunters who want a 1-gun-does-it-all semi-auto without spending premium-brand dollars.