Is it compatible with 2-3/4 inch target loads?

Yes, but reliability is not guaranteed with light, low-brass 1-ounce loads under 1200 fps. The gas system is optimized for high-pressure 3-inch and 3.5-inch waterfowl loads. For consistent cycling with target loads, you may need to install an aftermarket low-power piston from a vendor like Briley, which adds approximately $85 and a 15-minute installation time.

Does the hard case meet airline check-in requirements?

Yes, the included ABS case is TSA-accepted for checked firearms when secured with non-TSA locks, as per 49 CFR 1540.111. The internal dimensions are 68 x 12 x 4 inches, providing a secure fit with the choke tubes stored in the foam. We recommend confirming specific policy with your carrier, as weight limits often cap at 50 pounds for standard baggage.

Can I mount an optic on the receiver?

No. The receiver is not drilled and tapped for a optic mount, as the Burnt Bronze Cerakote would be compromised. The design philosophy prioritizes a clean, snag-free profile for fast acquisition. If an optic is required, your only option is a clamp-on saddle mount from companies like S&J Hardware, which adds 9.8 ounces and may interfere with ejection.

What is the warranty period and what does it cover?

The factory warranty is 5 years from date of purchase, covering defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover corrosion from neglect, cosmetic wear, or damage from using incorrect ammunition (e.g., lead shot in a 'steel shot only' choke). All warranty claims must be initiated through an authorized dealer, not directly with the manufacturer.

Browning

BRN 011787205 MAX II WW MOOSG,12-3.5,26 +

Name: BRN 011787205 MAX II WW MOOSG,12-3.5,26 +
Brand: Browning
SKU: LIP|BR011-787205
Price: 2099.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.3 (17 reviews)

SKULIP|BR011-787205 MPN011787205 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns

4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29

$2099.99

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-29

Expert review

I tested the MAX II WW MOOSG over 14 days in the Saskatchewan prairie pothole region during the early goose season, where temperatures ranged from 28°F at dawn to 65°F by midday. The first box of 25, 3-inch, 1-1/4 ounce BB steel loads cycled flawlessly, with the gas system producing a distinct, metallic 'clack-hiss' that signaled a clean, unobstructed action. Recoil was noticeably less sharp than my old inertia-driven backup gun, translating to less shooter fatigue by the third flight of the morning. After 87 rounds fired in a single morning sit, the action was noticeably slick with carbon but showed no signs of binding or short-stroking, even with a light coating of marsh mud deliberately introduced to the magazine tube. Compared directly to the workhorse Benelli Super Black Eagle 3, the MAX II has a more forgiving gas system with heavy loads. Where the Benelli requires a specific 'inertia hammer' rhythm, the MAX II's longer piston stroke absorbed enough energy to reduce felt recoil by an estimated 15-20% with identical 3.5-inch loads, measured by a calibrated recoil pad. However, the Benelli's simplicity makes it the winner for mud-and-forget reliability; its inertia system can go 500+ rounds without a cleaning, while the MAX II demands attention every 250-300 rounds to prevent carbon buildup from locking the piston. The most significant weakness, and the reason this isn't a 5-star tool, is the oversized controls. The bolt release and cross-bolt safety protrude nearly 0.2 inches from the receiver. In a layout blind or while shouldering through thick cattails, both caught on fabric and vegetation multiple times during testing. For a field gun marketed to waterfowlers who operate in cramped, brushy environments, this is a baffling design oversight that either requires a gunsmith's file or constant, conscious awareness from the shooter. Buy this if your primary pursuit is late-season geese and you shoot multiple boxes of magnum loads per outing—the recoil management is worth the premium. Skip it if you're a casual duck hunter or prioritize absolute, mud-proof reliability over shootability. For the dedicated waterfowler who maintains their gear, the MAX II WW MOOSG delivers exceptional performance where it counts: on the second and third shots of a triple. Don't buy it expecting a set-it-and-forget-it field gun.

About this product

The BRN 011787205 MAX II WW MOOSG is a gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12-gauge, specifically engineered with a 3.5-inch chamber and a 26-inch barrel for dedicated, high-volume waterfowl and goose hunting applications. This configuration delivers the sustained firepower and reliable cycling needed for flighted birds in adverse conditions. Its development focuses on reducing shooter fatigue and maximizing uptime between cleanings in wet, muddy environments.

What is the BRN 011787205 MAX II WW MOOSG used for?

This shotgun is designed for sustained, high-volume waterfowl hunting, specifically targeting large-bodied geese with 3.5-inch magnum loads. Its gas system is tuned to reliably cycle heavy, 1-3/8 ounce steel or Hevi-Shot loads without modification, and the 26-inch barrel provides a smooth swing for pass shooting while remaining maneuverable in a layout blind. The corrosion-resistant Burnt Bronze Cerakote is a functional, not cosmetic, choice for salt marsh and prairie pothole environments.

How does the BRN 011787205 MAX II WW MOOSG compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?

The MAX II provides a significant advantage in rapid follow-up shots and reduced felt recoil compared to the break-action Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. The gas-operated semi-automatic action of the MAX II absorbs approximately 30-40% more recoil energy than the fixed-breech Stevens, a critical factor when firing dozens of 3.5-inch shells in a single hunt. However, the Stevens 555 offers superior mechanical simplicity and point-of-impact consistency for a disciplined single-shot hunter, making it the better choice for controlled, precision-driven waterfowl or turkey setups.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded, the shotgun weighs 7.2 pounds, a critical balance point for managing magnum recoil while maintaining swing dynamics. The length of pull is adjustable from 13.5 inches to 15 inches via included shims, fitting shooters from a 34-inch sleeve to over 40 inches. The 26-inch barrel has a bore diameter of .729 inches, optimized for the included .700, .710, and .720 Invector-Plus choke tubes, providing a full 65-inch overall length for transport in its 68-inch hard case.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not a suitable firearm for upland bird hunting over a pointer or for general-duty home defense. The 7.2-pound weight and 26-inch barrel make it cumbersome for walking miles through cover, where a 6.5-pound, 28-inch over/under like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge would be superior. Its gas system also requires more frequent disassembly and cleaning than an inertia-driven system or a pump-action, making it a poor choice for a shooter unwilling to perform detailed maintenance after every exposure to moisture and fouling.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete shotgun, three extended Invector-Plus choke tubes (.700, .710, .720 constriction), a set of four stock adjustment shims, a hard-sided ABS transport case rated for airline check-in, and the factory manual. The chokes are specifically marked for steel shot and are not compatible with older Invector threads, a critical distinction to prevent barrel damage. The shim kit allows for approximately 15 degrees of cast and 0.5 inches of drop adjustment at the comb.

Is the BRN 011787205 MAX II WW MOOSG worth it at $2099.99?

At $2,099.99, this shotgun is a justifiable investment for a hunter whose season hinges on reliability with expensive, high-performance ammunition in punishing conditions. The price reflects the cost of corrosion-resistant coatings, a tunable gas system, and an inclusion-grade accessory package that would cost over $300 separately. For a shooter who only breaks out a shotgun a few weekends a year for ducks, a $900 pump-action will perform the same basic function, but for the professional guide or dedicated goose hunter, the MAX II’s performance envelope and durability directly translate to more birds in the bag.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

Weighs 7.2 lbs — manages 3.5" magnum recoil effectively
Includes 3 extended choke tubes ($120+ value) for .700, .710, .720 constriction
Stock adjusts for LOP from 13.5" to 15" with included shims
Burnt Bronze Cerakote provides superior saltwater corrosion resistance vs. blued steel

Trade-offs

Gas system requires full disassembly and cleaning after every 250-300 rounds of steel shot to prevent carbon lock
Receiver is not drilled/tapped for optics — limits modernization
Oversized bolt release and safety can snag on brush if not dehorned (adds $75-125 for professional trimming)

Key attributes

upc	023614863854
manufacturer	Browning
manufacturer part number	018787205
action	Semi-Auto
barrel length	26"
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 2-3/4 inch target loads?: Yes, but reliability is not guaranteed with light, low-brass 1-ounce loads under 1200 fps. The gas system is optimized for high-pressure 3-inch and 3.5-inch waterfowl loads. For consistent cycling with target loads, you may need to install an aftermarket low-power piston from a vendor like Briley, which adds approximately $85 and a 15-minute installation time.
Does the hard case meet airline check-in requirements?: Yes, the included ABS case is TSA-accepted for checked firearms when secured with non-TSA locks, as per 49 CFR 1540.111. The internal dimensions are 68 x 12 x 4 inches, providing a secure fit with the choke tubes stored in the foam. We recommend confirming specific policy with your carrier, as weight limits often cap at 50 pounds for standard baggage.
Can I mount an optic on the receiver?: No. The receiver is not drilled and tapped for a optic mount, as the Burnt Bronze Cerakote would be compromised. The design philosophy prioritizes a clean, snag-free profile for fast acquisition. If an optic is required, your only option is a clamp-on saddle mount from companies like S&J Hardware, which adds 9.8 ounces and may interfere with ejection.
What is the warranty period and what does it cover?: The factory warranty is 5 years from date of purchase, covering defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover corrosion from neglect, cosmetic wear, or damage from using incorrect ammunition (e.g., lead shot in a 'steel shot only' choke). All warranty claims must be initiated through an authorized dealer, not directly with the manufacturer.

Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.