Browning Maxus II 12 Gauge 28″ Mossy Oak Shadow Grass

About this product

What is the Browning Maxus II 12 Gauge 28″ Mossy Oak Shadow Grass? It's a 3.5" chamber semi-automatic field shotgun purpose-built to handle the heaviest modern waterfowl loads with minimal shooter punishment via a sophisticated gas and recoil management system. This is not a budget scattergun; it's a premium, tool-specific instrument designed for seasons spent in marshes and blinds where reliability under punishing conditions is non-negotiable. Its Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Habitat camouflage isn't just dip—it's an integral overmold on a synthetic stock, making the entire package a purpose-driven hunting platform.

What is the Browning Maxus II used for?

This shotgun is a dedicated waterfowl and upland hunting tool, specifically engineered for 3.5" magnum loads where sustained quick follow-up shots and shooter comfort are critical. The 28" back-bored barrel and Invector-Plus choke system deliver consistent, dense patterns for pass shooting geese or decoying ducks at extended ranges, while the 7.6 lb unloaded weight helps maintain a smooth swing. While capable with lighter upland loads, its design and balance are optimized for the high-volume, heavy-ammunition demands of waterfowling, not fast-handling clays or quail covers.

How does the Browning Maxus II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?

The Maxus II outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in high-volume, rapid-fire scenarios and recoil management, but sacrifices some handling speed and precision-pointedness for one specific target. Where the over-under Stevens is better for deliberate, target-focused shooting like sporting clays or dove fields, the Maxus II's semi-auto action and 4+1 capacity are superior for the flurry of a duck blind where three quick shots are needed. The gas system and Inflex pad reduce felt recoil by an estimated 40-50% compared to the fixed mechanical action of the 555, a tangible difference after 50 heavy 3.5" shells.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The shotgun weighs 7.6 pounds (1220 grams) unloaded, with an overall length of 49.25 inches, balancing 1.75 inches forward of the hinge pin for a deliberate, stable swing on long waterfowl passes. The 28" barrel is back-bored to a 0.742" internal diameter, which reduces felt recoil and promotes more consistent shot patterns by reducing pellet deformation. The length of pull is 14.375 inches, and the 1.5" drop at comb works with the SoftFlex cheek pad to manage cheek slap from heavy loads—critical during extended range sessions testing high-velocity ammunition.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not for the casual dove hunter or budget-conscious shooter looking for a universal "first shotgun." The $1912.99 price point buys specialized waterfowl performance you won't leverage if you primarily shoot 2.75" target loads. It's also not ideal for the shooter prioritizing lightning-fast handling in tight brush for grouse or woodcock; the 49.25" overall length and semi-auto balance make it feel less "pointable" than a lighter over-under like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact. If your use case is primarily trap, skeet, or general farm use, you're overpaying for capabilities you'll rarely, if ever, employ.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete shotgun with the Power Drive gas system installed, three Invector-Plus choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), an ABS hard carrying case, and a set of instruction manuals covering disassembly and maintenance. The chokes are hand-tighten only; no wrench is included, which is standard for Browning but worth noting. The case has foam cutouts securing the shotgun and chokes separately, providing adequate protection for transport to the marsh but not for checked airline baggage, which requires a TSA-approved hard case.

Is the Browning Maxus II worth it at $1912.99?

Yes, but only if your primary use is sustained waterfowl hunting with heavy 3.5" magnum loads where its recoil-reduction technology directly translates to less shooter fatigue and faster, more accurate follow-up shots. The investment buys you the Power Drive gas system's legendary reliability in foul weather, a finish that stands up to marsh abuse without constant babying, and a level of fit-and-finish far beyond budget autoloaders. If you're a dedicated waterfowler putting 500-1000 rounds a season through your primary gun, the cost-per-hunt makes it a justifiable tool. If you're a two-box-a-year hunter, a rifle for larger game might be a better allocation of funds.