Browning Maxus II Wicked Wing 12 Gauge 26″ 3.5″ 4+1
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning Maxus II Wicked Wing is a 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun engineered specifically for waterfowl hunting with corrosion-resistant coatings and advanced gas operation. This firearm represents Browning's continued refinement of their flagship hunting platform, balancing reliability with the demanding requirements of wetland environments. At $1,999.99, it occupies the premium segment of the sporting shotgun market.
What is the Browning Maxus II Wicked Wing used for?
This shotgun is purpose-built for waterfowl hunting in demanding wet environments where corrosion resistance and reliable cycling are paramount. The 26-inch back-bored barrel provides optimal swing characteristics for tracking birds, while the 3.5-inch chamber accommodates heavy waterfowl loads. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage and Cerakote finishes withstand prolonged exposure to moisture and brush.
How does the Browning Maxus II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maxus II outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in rapid follow-up shots and corrosion resistance but trades off the simplicity of an over-under action. Where the Stevens requires manual action cycling between shots, the Maxus II's gas system provides near-instantaneous reset. The Cerakote finish also provides superior saltwater protection compared to the Stevens' standard bluing.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7 pounds, 8 ounces with an overall length of 48.5 inches when assembled. The 26-inch barrel maintains balance while providing sufficient sight radius for accurate shot placement. The length of pull measures 14.375 inches, accommodating most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for budget-conscious hunters or those preferring traditional wood stocks. The $1,999.99 price point places it well above entry-level options like the Stevens 555 Compact. The synthetic stock and tactical aesthetics may disappoint hunters seeking classic walnut furniture.
What's in the box?
The package includes three extended Invector-Plus choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), an ABS hard case, and standard documentation. The chokes provide immediate pattern options for various hunting scenarios, eliminating the need for additional accessory purchases before initial use.
Is the Browning Maxus II worth it at $1,999.99?
For serious waterfowl hunters facing harsh conditions, the investment justifies itself through durability and reliability. The corrosion-resistant Cerakote finish and weatherproof synthetic stock withstand environments that would damage lesser firearms. Hunters requiring occasional upland use may find better value in more versatile platforms.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7 lbs 8 oz - 1.2 lbs lighter than comparable Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus models
- Includes 3 extended choke tubes (F, M, IC) - $120 value if purchased separately
- Cerakote finish provides 500+ hours salt spray resistance - 3x better than blued finishes
- Power Drive gas system cycles 2.75" to 3.5" shells without adjustment
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks the aesthetic appeal of walnut - limits use for traditional upland hunting
- 4+1 capacity requires frequent reloading compared to magazine-fed shotguns
- No shim kit included for custom fit - $35 aftermarket purchase needed for serious fitting
Key attributes
| upc | 023614997566 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011706205 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Burnt Bronze Cerakote |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,M,IC |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 39.3500 |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 14.05 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front, Ivory Mid Bead Rear |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it work with steel shot?
- Yes, the back-bored barrel and Invector-Plus choke system are specifically engineered for steel shot compatibility. Browning rates all chokes included with the Wicked Wing for steel shot up to maximum velocities. The barrel's back-boring reduces pressure and improves pattern consistency with non-toxic shot.
- Can I use 2.75-inch shells?
- The shotgun cycles 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells reliably through its adjustable gas system. The Power Drive gas system automatically regulates gas pressure based on shell length. You'll experience slightly reduced recoil with lighter loads while maintaining reliable cycling.
- Does it come with a warranty?
- Browning provides a 5-year limited warranty covering manufacturer defects. The warranty requires registration within 30 days of purchase and excludes damage from improper maintenance or modifications. Ironclad Armory provides additional 30-day inspection and return support for functionality issues.
- Is the camo pattern permanent?
- The Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern is molded into the synthetic stock material, making it wear-resistant and permanent. The Burnt Bronze Cerakote on metal surfaces provides 500+ hours of salt spray resistance per ASTM B117 testing. Both finishes withstand harsh field conditions better than traditional finishes.