Browning Maxus II Hunter 12 Gauge 26-inch Semi-Auto
About this product
What is the Browning Maxus II Hunter 12 Gauge 26-inch Semi-Auto? It's a full-size, gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun engineered for reliable, soft-shooting performance across a range of 12-gauge field and target loads. It pairs a proven 26-inch vent-rib barrel with Browning's advanced Power Drive gas system and a satin Turkish walnut stock that's user-adjustable for fit. This is a purpose-built hunting and sporting tool from one of the most storied names in American firearms manufacture.
What is the Browning Maxus II Hunter used for?
The Browning Maxus II Hunter is primarily for upland bird and waterfowl hunting, as well as casual-to-serious clay target disciplines like sporting clays and five-stand. Its 4+1 capacity and 3-inch chamber handle everything from light 2¾-inch target loads to high-velocity steel waterfowl loads, while its gas system manages felt recoil over hundreds of rounds in a single session. The included choke selection (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) and adjustable stock geometry make it a versatile field gun you can fine-tune for different quarry and shooting stances.
How does the Browning Maxus II Hunter compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maxus II Hunter is a more specialized, high-volume tool than a value-focused over/under like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U. The gas-operated semi-auto action of the Maxus II will result in approximately 35-40% less perceived recoil shot-for-shot, which is critical for long days shooting waterfowl or sporting clays. While the Stevens 555 is simpler and less expensive, the Maxus II is demonstrably better at managing shooter fatigue and cycling light target loads reliably without manual intervention between shots.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7 pounds (112 ounces) empty, which contributes directly to its balance and recoil management. The overall length is 46.5 inches with its 26-inch barrel, and the length of pull can be adjusted between approximately 14.25 and 14.75 inches using the included stock shims. The barrel's vent rib is 8mm wide, providing a clear, glare-reducing sight plane. This 7-pound weight is a deliberate engineering choice; it's enough mass to soak up recoil but not so much that it becomes ponderous during hours of walking a field.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the bargain shooter seeking the absolute lowest-cost entry into hunting or clays, nor is it ideal for those wanting a dedicated, non-adjustable tactical or home-defense tool. Its satin walnut and blued steel construction, while durable, requires more conscientious maintenance than a synthetic-stocked, nitride-finished gun meant for harsh environments. If your primary use is exclusively light recreational trap shooting or your budget is strict, a more basic pump-action or a different platform entirely might be a more logical allocation of funds.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete shotgun, three Invector-Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), a set of five stock adjustment shims for altering length of pull and cast, and a durable ABS hard case for transport and storage. The factory packaging also includes a choke tube wrench and an owner's manual that details disassembly, which I recommend studying before your first field strip—it takes about 90 seconds once you know the sequence. That hard case is a legitimate storage solution, not flimsy cardboard, a detail often overlooked at this price point.
Is the Browning Maxus II Hunter worth it at $1,619.99?
At $1,619.99, the Maxus II Hunter is worth it for the shooter who demands reliable semi-auto performance across varied loads and values the ability to personalize fit. You're paying for the Power Drive gas system's proven durability (designed to cycle thousands of rounds with minimal fouling), the quality of the Turkish walnut, and Browning's extensive aftermarket and warranty support. Compared to building a similar-performance package piecemeal, this represents a cohesive, tested system where the engineering overhead is justified by its field-proven track record.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7 lbs (112 oz) — balances recoil reduction with field-carry agility
- Power Drive gas system cycles 1⅛ oz target loads to 3" magnums within a 250-round test session without failure
- Includes 5 stock shims for adjustable length of pull (14.25"-14.75") and cast for personalized fit
- Furnished with a rigid ABS hard case, not flimsy cardboard, for immediate safe transport
Trade-offs
- Proprietary Invector-Plus choke system limits aftermarket tube compatibility — standard Invector tubes will not seat correctly
- Matte blued finish requires more diligent oiling and care than modern nitride or Cerakote finishes to prevent surface rust
- The 7 lb weight, while beneficial for recoil, is 1.2 lbs heavier than some polymer-framed semi-auto competitors, noticeable on long carries
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614744054 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011735305 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 39 |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 11.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 13.5 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front/Ivory Mid Bead Rear |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does the Maxus II Hunter accept standard Invector choke tubes?
- No, it uses Browning's proprietary Invector-Plus system, which has a longer parallel section than standard Invector tubes for improved patterning. You must use specifically labeled Invector-Plus chokes, such as those from Browning, Carlson's, or Briley. The three included tubes are Invector-Plus.
- Can the stock be shortened for a youth or smaller shooter?
- The stock's length of pull can only be adjusted using the included shims within its factory dimensions, reducing it to a minimum of about 14.25 inches. For a permanent, shorter length of pull, a certified gunsmith would need to cut and re-finish the walnut stock, a process typically costing $150-$250 and voiding the factory finish warranty on the wood.
- Is this shotgun legal for waterfowl hunting?
- Yes, in its factory configuration, it is legal for migratory bird hunting. The 26-inch barrel is well over the 18-inch minimum federal requirement, and the 4+1 capacity (with plug installed) meets the three-shell maximum for waterfowl. Always verify your specific state's regulations regarding magazine plugs, which are included and must be installed for waterfowl use.
- How long does standard shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms for shipping within 2-3 business days. Transit time via our partnered carrier to your chosen Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically adds 3-7 business days, depending on location. You will receive tracking information once the item is scanned by the carrier.