Browning Maxus II Golden Clays Sporting 12GA 28in 3in Chamber
About this product
What is the Browning Maxus II Golden Clays Sporting 12GA 28in 3in Chamber? It's a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun engineered specifically for competitive clay target shooting, featuring a Grade III walnut stock with adjustable comb and nickel-plated receiver with gold accents. This shotgun balances refined aesthetics with field-ready functionality, including five extended Midas Grade choke tubes and a Pro Balance weighted magazine cap for optimized swing characteristics. Designed for serious sporting clays and skeet shooters who demand both performance and visual appeal in their competition firearms.
What is the Browning Maxus II Golden Clays used for?
This shotgun is designed exclusively for competitive clay target shooting, particularly sporting clays and skeet disciplines. The 28-inch vent rib barrel provides excellent swing characteristics for tracking moving targets, while the adjustable comb allows for custom fit to individual shooter preferences. The gas-operated system reliably cycles target loads from 2¾-inch to 3-inch shells, making it suitable for various clay shooting courses and competitions.
How does the Browning Maxus II Golden Clays compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Browning Maxus II outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in recoil management and follow-up shot speed due to its gas-operated semi-automatic action. While the Stevens 555 offers traditional over-under reliability at $1,200 less, the Browning's faster cycling and reduced recoil make it superior for high-volume shooting sessions where fatigue management matters. The Browning's nickel-plated receiver and Grade III walnut stock also provide significantly better aesthetics than the Stevens' matte finish.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Browning Maxus II Golden Clays weighs 7.6 pounds unloaded with a 28-inch barrel length and 49.5-inch overall length. The 3-inch chamber accommodates standard and magnum loads while maintaining a balanced 14-inch length of pull that fits most adult shooters. The weighted magazine cap adds 4 ounces of forward balance that improves swing momentum compared to standard shotguns.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for hunters or tactical shooters who need compact handling or camo finishes. The glossy finish and decorative engraving make it impractical for field use where concealment matters, and the 28-inch barrel length exceeds what most waterfowl or turkey hunters prefer. For hunting applications, consider our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U with more utilitarian finishes.
What's in the box?
The package includes five extended Midas Grade choke tubes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet), an ABS hard case, owner's manual, and choke tube wrench. The shotgun comes with a factory-installed HiViz Tri-Comp fiber optic front sight and white mid-bead, plus the adjustable comb system with multiple shims for custom fitting. Total package weight is 12.2 pounds including the hard case and all accessories.
Is the Browning Maxus II Golden Clays worth it at $2,277.99?
At $2,277.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for serious competitive shooters who participate in multiple tournaments annually. The gas-operated system reduces felt recoil by approximately 40% compared to inertia-driven shotguns, allowing for longer practice sessions without fatigue. For occasional shooters or those on a budget, our Stevens 555 Sporting Compact provides adequate performance at nearly half the price.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Gas operation reduces felt recoil by 40% compared to inertia systems
- Includes 5 Midas choke tubes ($200 value separately)
- Adjustable comb provides 0.5-inch height adjustment for custom fit
- 7.6-pound weight balances perfectly for sustained shooting sessions
Trade-offs
- Nickel finish requires meticulous cleaning to prevent corrosion from sweat
- No left-hand ejection option limits shooter compatibility
- Gloss finish shows scratches easily in field use
- ABS case lacks custom foam, requiring aftermarket upgrade for secure transport
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614863601 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011784304 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | HiViz TriComp Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with steel shot ammunition?
- Yes, the Browning Maxus II Golden Clays handles steel shot perfectly with the included Midas Grade choke tubes. Use Modified or Improved Cylinder chokes for steel shot patterns, and avoid Full choke constriction with steel. The barrel is proofed for all standard steel shot loads up to 3-inch length.
- Does it fit left-handed shooters?
- The ejection port is right-side only, making it unsuitable for left-handed shooters without modification. The adjustable comb works for either shoulder but casings will eject across the field of view for left-eye-dominant shooters. Consider our ambidextrous options if you require left-hand operation.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Shipping to Montana addresses typically takes 3-5 business days via FedEx Ground with signature required. All firearms ship next business day after FFL verification completes, and we include a tracking number within 24 hours of shipment. FFL transfers add 1-2 additional days for processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for store credit only, minus a 15% restocking fee and original shipping costs. Firearms must be unfired and in original packaging with all accessories included. Consult our fit guide or visit a local dealer for measurements before purchasing to avoid return fees.
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- It accepts any Invector-DS choke tubes, which include most Browning and aftermarket options. Pattern testing showed best results with factory Midas tubes, but Carlson's and Briley chokes pattern within 5% consistency. Avoid older Invector-plus tubes as they won't seat properly in the DS chamber.