BRN 011790204 MAX II MOOSG,12-3.5,28 +
Pros & cons
What works
- Vector Pro gas system reduces felt recoil approximately 35% versus a fixed-breech design — essential with 3.5" magnums.
- All controls (bolt release, safety, shell latch) are oversized for positive manipulation with gloved hands.
- Complete factory corrosion resistance via Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating on internal parts and satin-blued barrel/external metal.
- Includes 3 extended Invector-Plus choke tubes (F, M, IC) for immediate field use, a $90+ value.
Trade-offs
- No shim kit for advanced stock drop/cast adjustment is included — a $25 accessory purchase for fine-tuning fit.
- Empty weight of 7.3 lbs makes it cumbersome for walking upland hunts compared to sub-6 lb. models.
- Manual cross-bolt safety lacks tactile reset click — safe/dangerous position is visible but not audible.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the BRN 011790204 MAX II MOOSG,12-3.5,28 +? It is a 12-gauge, 3.5-inch chamber gas-operated autoloading shotgun built for high-volume waterfowl and turkey hunting, featuring Browning's proprietary Vector Pro Gas System for reliable cycling across dramatic pressure ranges. I categorize it as a long-range, high-capacity utility autoloader engineered to handle everything from light 2¾-inch target loads to punishing 3½-inch magnum steel, making it less specialized for clays than a dedicated sporting gun like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U.
What is the BRN 011790204 MAX II MOOSG,12-3.5,28 + used for?
This shotgun's primary use is sustained long-range waterfowl and turkey hunting. Its 3½-inch chamber and adjustable gas system are engineered for reliability with high-brass magnum loads and steel shot, while the 28-inch barrel provides the necessary sight plane and velocity for consistent 60-yard patterns. The design priorities durability and ease of operation in cold, wet conditions over the faster swing dynamics a competition shooter needs.
How does the BRN 011790204 MAX II MOOSG,12-3.5,28 + compare to a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maxus II is better for volume shooting and harsh environments, while the Stevens 555 is superior for target disciplines requiring immediate pointability. The gas-operated Maxus II reduces perceived recoil by roughly 30-35% compared to the over-under's direct mechanical action, a critical advantage when firing 2-3 boxes of heavy turkey loads. However, the Stevens 555 offers a more direct mechanical trigger and faster acquisition for sporting clays, as detailed in our stevens 555 breakdown.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the Maxus II weighs 7 pounds 3 ounces (3260 grams) with a 28-inch barrel, putting it solidly in the 'full-size magnum autoloader' category. Its overall length is 49.5 inches, with a 14.25-inch length of pull to the center of the Inflex recoil pad. The forend is 9.75 inches long, offering ample grip for shooters wearing bulky gloves in a layout blind.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for a shooter primarily interested in upland bird hunting or home defense. Carrying a 7.3-pound, 49.5-inch shotgun through heavy brush for hours is an exercise in frustration. A Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga is a far more suitable upland tool. The long barrel and manual safety also make it a less-than-ideal choice for close-quarters defensive scenarios.
What's in the box?
You get the core platform ready for the field, with three Invector-Plus extended choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), a TurnKey magazine plug to restrict capacity for migratory bird compliance, and an ABS hard case for transport. It does not include a standard sling, shell carrier, or additional shim kit for advanced stock adjustments beyond basic drop and cast.
Is the BRN 011790204 MAX II MOOSG,12-3.5,28 + worth it at $1,919.99?
Yes, if your season involves multiple trips in a marsh or blind firing heavy 3-inch and 3.5-inch shells where reliability and recoil management are non-negotiable. At this price point, it competes directly with the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3, but the Browning's Vector Pro gas system is demonstrably gentler with 2¾-inch target loads—crucial if you also use it for preseason practice.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614863922 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011790204 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Fiber Optic FS/ Ivory Mid-Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 12-gauge ammo?
- Yes, it cycles 2¾-inch, 3-inch, and 3½-inch 12-gauge shells interchangeably thanks to the self-regulating Vector Pro gas system. I've run Federal Top Gun target loads (1145 FPS) and Winchester Long Beard XR turkey magnums (1250 FPS) in the same session with zero adjustments required. The system is optimized for shells from 1⅛ oz. up to 2¼ oz. payloads.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch shotgun case?
- Barely. At 49.5 inches overall length, it will fit in a rigid 50-inch interior case, but there is zero spare length for foam at the muzzle. A 52-inch interior case from Plano or Pelican is the practical minimum for safe transport and storage, with room for chokes and the magazine plug.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships all orders within 2-3 business days via FedEx Ground. Transit time depends on your location relative to our warehouse in Wichita, KS, but most deliveries west of the Mississippi arrive in 5-8 business days total. We ship UPS for expedited orders.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No. Due to federal firearms regulations, all firearm transfers are final once the 4473 is processed. We strongly recommend verifying fit and feel through a local dealer before purchase. We cannot accept returns or exchanges on serialized items except for verified manufacturer defects covered under warranty.
- Does this work with a Carlson's extended choke tube?
- Only if it is specifically an 'Invector-Plus' thread pattern. Browning's Invector (standard) and Invector-Plus threads are not interchangeable. This model uses the Invector-Plus system; confirm any aftermarket choke, like those from Carlson's or Briley, is explicitly marked for 'Invector-Plus/Browning Maxus' before purchase.