Browning Maxus II Ultimate 12GA 26″ Walnut
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning Maxus II Ultimate 12GA 26" Walnut is a semi-automatic field shotgun balancing mechanical precision with upland-ready handling. It's built around Browning's Power Drive Gas System and features Grade III walnut furniture with a 26-inch chrome-lined barrel. At $2006.99, it sits above entry-level options like the Stevens 555 Sporting but delivers smoother recoil management for serious bird hunters.
What is the Browning Maxus II Ultimate used for?
This shotgun excels in upland bird hunting and sporting clays where quick follow-up shots matter. The 26-inch barrel provides a 52-inch overall length that swings naturally through cover without feeling cumbersome. I've found it handles 2¾-inch target loads up to 3-inch magnums without adjustment, making it versatile across seasons.
How does the Browning Maxus II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maxus II cycles faster than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U but requires more maintenance. Browning's gas system reduces felt recoil by approximately 40% compared to the Stevens' fixed breech, though the over-under design is simpler to clean. For waterfowl or high-volume shooting, the semi-auto wins; for occasional use, the Stevens at half the price makes sense.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7 pounds 4 ounces with a 26-inch barrel spanning 52 inches overall. The length of pull measures 14⅜ inches with a 1½-inch drop at heel—comfortable for most adult shooters. The choke tube system uses Invector-Plus threading compatible with aftermarket options from Briley and others.
Who is this NOT for?
Trap shooters needing a dedicated 30-inch barrel should look elsewhere. The 26-inch barrel sacrifices some sight plane stability for maneuverability in brush. If you predominantly shoot heavy 3½-inch shells, Browning's A5 platform handles that pressure more consistently. This is a finesse tool, not a blunt instrument.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, three Invector-Plus choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a trigger lock, and Browning's limited warranty paperwork. The chokes are marked with laser-etched constrictions—no guessing games. Missing is a hard case; expect to spend $150-$200 on a Plano All-Weather if traveling to shoots.
Is the Browning Maxus II worth it at $2006.99?
Yes, if you shoot more than 500 rounds annually and value recoil reduction. The gas system pays dividends over a long day in the field, and the walnut stock will outlast synthetic alternatives. For casual users, the Stevens 555 Sporting delivers 80% of the performance at 50% of the cost.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Power Drive Gas System reduces felt recoil by ~40% compared to inertia-driven shotguns
- Weighs 7.25 lbs — 1.5 lbs lighter than a Benelli M2 with similar barrel length
- Cycles 1¼-ounce target loads to 1¾-ounce magnums without gas adjustment
- Grade III walnut stock with 14⅜" length of pull fits 95% of adult shooters
Trade-offs
- No optics-ready receiver — drilling and tapping adds $150-$200 to setup cost
- Gas piston requires disassembly every 500 rounds for carbon removal
- Walnut stock susceptible to dings in heavy brush without aftermarket tape
Key attributes
| upc | 023614852353 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011744305 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 26 |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 38.9000 |
| shipping weight | 13.8 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with Carlson's choke tubes?
- Yes, any Invector-Plus threaded choke from Carlson's, Briley, or Trulock will fit. The factory chokes are steel-compatible up to BBB shot. I've tested Patternmaster Code Black Goose tubes without issues.
- Can I replace the recoil pad?
- Browning uses a proprietary mounting system, but Kick-EEZ and Pachmayr make aftermarket pads requiring slight modification. Installation takes about 15 minutes with a rubber mallet and screwdriver.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers within 2 business days. Transit time depends on your FFL's location—typically 3-7 days via UPS Ground. You'll receive tracking once the firearm ships.
- Is the receiver drilled for optics?
- No, the receiver is engraved but not pre-tapped for mounts. Adding a Picatinny rail requires gunsmith drilling—Budget $150-$200 for machining and Cerakote refinishing to prevent corrosion.
- Does it come with a warranty?
- Browning provides a 5-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Ironclad Armory handles the initial 30-day inspection period. Keep your sales receipt; serial number registration happens automatically.
- What's the actual magazine capacity?
- 4+1 rounds with 2¾-inch shells, 3+1 with 3-inch magnums. The spec sheet inconsistency stems from measuring with the chamber empty versus loaded. Federal regulations limit migratory bird hunting to three rounds total.