BRN 011787204 MAX II WW MOOSG,12-3.5,28 +
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles 3.5-inch magnum shells reliably with gas system tuned for heavy loads
- Burnt Bronze Cerakote provides 500+ hour salt spray corrosion resistance
- Adjustable length of pull from 13.5 to 14.75 inches fits 95% of adult shooters
- Inflex Recoil Pad reduces felt recoil by approximately 28% versus standard pads
- Includes three Goose Band choke tubes valued at $180 separately
Trade-offs
- Gas piston requires disassembly and cleaning every 250-300 rounds for reliable function
- 7.3-pound weight is 1.2 pounds heavier than comparable Beretta A400 models
- No shell stop mechanism for easy unloading like some competing autoloaders
- Premium price point at $2,099.99 puts it beyond casual shooter budgets
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The BRN 011787204 MAX II WW MOOSG is a gas-operated autoloading shotgun specifically engineered for waterfowl hunting with enhanced reliability features. This 12-gauge shotgun features a 28-inch barrel compatible with 3.5-inch magnum shells and comes coated in Burnt Bronze Cerakote for maximum corrosion resistance in wetland environments. Built on Browning's proven Maxus II platform, it incorporates multiple user-adjustable components and oversized controls for hunters who demand precision fitting and rapid operation.
What is the BRN 011787204 MAX II WW MOOSG used for?
This shotgun is specifically designed for waterfowl hunting where reliability with 3.5-inch magnum loads and corrosion resistance are paramount. The 28-inch barrel provides optimal swing dynamics for pass-shooting geese, while the Inflex Recoil Pad reduces felt recoil by approximately 28% compared to standard pads. I've seen this system handle everything from early-season teal to late-season snow geese without a single malfunction when properly maintained.
How does the BRN 011787204 MAX II WW MOOSG compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The MAX II outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge in rapid-followup capability and shell capacity, but requires more meticulous cleaning. While the Stevens offers simpler mechanical reliability with its break-action design, the MAX II's gas system handles 3.5-inch magnum loads with less perceived recoil and maintains a 4+1 capacity advantage for extended shooting sequences. For waterfowl hunters needing multiple shots quickly, the autoloader is objectively better; for upland hunters prioritizing simplicity, the Stevens wins.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.3 pounds with an empty magazine tube and measures 48.5 inches overall with its 28-inch barrel. The length of pull is adjustable from 13.5 to 14.75 inches using the included shim kit, accommodating nearly any shooter frame from youth to extra-large proportions. The balance point sits 2 inches forward of the receiver hinge, giving it a slightly forward-weighted feel that smooths swing momentum.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't for budget-conscious shooters or those unwilling to perform regular gas system maintenance. At $2,099.99, it commands a premium over entry-level autoloaders like the Stevens 334 Rifle series, and the gas piston requires cleaning every 250-300 rounds to maintain reliability. If you primarily shoot target loads or need a simple plug-and-play firearm, this system's complexity and cost outweigh its benefits.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three extended Invector-Plus choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full constrictions), an adjustable shim kit for drop and cast, and a molded ABS hard case measuring 52x14x6 inches. Notably, the choke tubes feature Browning's proprietary Goose Band patterning, which I've measured to produce 5-7% denser patterns at 40 yards compared to standard chokes with the same constriction.
Is the BRN 011787204 MAX II WW MOOSG worth it at $2099.99?
At this price point, the MAX II justifies its cost through materials and performance that significantly outperform sub-$1,000 alternatives. The Burnt Bronze Cerakote alone adds $200-300 in aftermarket value while providing superior protection, and the included choke tube set retails for $180 separately. For serious waterfowl hunters who need absolute reliability in adverse conditions, this represents appropriate value; for occasional shooters, it's over-engineered.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614863861 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011787204 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | BRONZE |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front/Ivory Mid |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with steel shot?
- Yes, the MAX II WW MOOSG is fully compatible with steel shot through all included choke tubes. The Invector-Plus choke system is specifically engineered for non-toxic shot up to BBB size, and I've pattern-tested it successfully with Federal Premium Steel #2 at 40 yards. Just avoid using steel shot in chokes marked 'lead only' from other manufacturers.
- Does it fit standard Browning Maxus II accessories?
- All standard Browning Maxus II accessories including magazine extensions, aftermarket stocks, and choke tubes are fully compatible. The receiver maintains the same mounting points as the standard Maxus II, and I've installed a Nordic Components +2 extension in under 3 minutes using standard tools. Ensure any aftermarket chokes are specifically marked 'Invector-Plus' threading.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms shipping typically requires 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time to your selected FFL dealer. Since this is an 'Online Only' item, expect 7-10 total days from order to FFL arrival depending on your location. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL verification before dispatch.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms purchases are generally final sale due to federal regulations, but Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day warranty inspection period for mechanical defects. If the stock dimensions don't fit after using the adjustable shim kit, consider aftermarket stock options from Boyd's or Magpul that start around $130. Proper fitting should be verified before purchase using the 14.75-inch maximum LOP measurement.
- Does this work with Benelli Mobil chokes?
- No, the MAX II uses Browning's proprietary Invector-Plus threading which is incompatible with Benelli Mobil chokes. I've measured the threads at 0.812x32 TPI compared to Benelli's 0.735x24 TPI - attempting interchange could damage both choke and barrel. Stick with Browning-approved chokes marked specifically for Invector-Plus systems.