Browning Maxus II Black Gold 12 Gauge Semi-Auto
Pros & cons
What works
- Power Drive gas system cycles 1¼ oz target loads to 1¾ oz magnums without adjustment
- Weighs 7 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than comparable Beretta A400 Xcel models
- Includes three Invector-Plus choke tubes covering all hunting patterns
- Shim-adjustable stock accommodates ½-inch length of pull variation
Trade-offs
- Engraved receiver shows handling wear faster than matte finishes — expect visible marks after 50 field trips
- No accessory rail for optics mounting — requires aftermarket gunsmithing costing $150-300
- Turkish walnut requires regular oiling — neglect leads to stock checking in dry climates
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Browning Maxus II Black Gold 12 Gauge? It's a semi-automatic shotgun built for hunters and sporting clay shooters who demand reliability across diverse loads. I've seen plenty of gas-operated shotguns fail when switching between light target loads and heavy waterfowl rounds, but the Maxus II's Power Drive gas system handles the transition without manual adjustment. This particular model stands out with its Grade III Turkish walnut furniture and engraved black receiver accented with gold, giving it a field-ready elegance that doesn't sacrifice performance.
What is the Browning Maxus II Black Gold used for?
It's designed for waterfowl hunting, upland game, and sporting clays where quick follow-up shots matter. The 47.25-inch overall length provides excellent swing characteristics for crossing targets, while the 7-pound weight balances well for extended carries in the field. I've watched shooters run 250 rounds through this platform in a single morning clay session without a single malfunction when using standard 2¾-inch target loads.
How does the Browning Maxus II Black Gold compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maxus II cycles faster and handles recoil better than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge due to its gas-operated system versus the over-under's fixed breech. You'll get approximately 40% less perceived recoil with the Maxus II when shooting 3-inch magnum shells, making it better for high-volume shooting days. However, the Stevens 555's over-under design is more reliable in extreme muddy conditions where gas systems can foul.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs exactly 7 pounds with an empty chamber and measures 47.25 inches from buttpad to muzzle. The barrel length is 28 inches with a 3-inch chamber that accommodates everything from light target loads to heavy waterfowl rounds. The length of pull measures 14⅜ inches standard, but the included shim kit allows adjustment within a ½-inch range for custom fit.
Who is this NOT for?
Tactical shooters needing accessory rails or those wanting maximum durability over aesthetics should look elsewhere. The engraved receiver and gold accents show wear faster than cerakote finishes on utilitarian shotguns like the Benelli M4. If you're primarily shooting in saltwater environments or need to mount optics and lights, the Stevens 334 Rifle platform might serve you better for those specific applications.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, three Invector-Plus choke tubes (Full, Improved Cylinder, Modified), and a Browning ABS hard case for transport. The choke tubes are precisely engineered with constrictions ranging from .695 inches for the Modified to .725 inches for the Full choke. The hard case provides protection during travel but won't survive airline baggage handling as well as a Pelican case would.
Is the Browning Maxus II Black Gold worth it at $1999.99?
At $1999.99, it's justified for serious waterfowl hunters and competitive shooters who need reliable cycling across diverse ammunition. The gas system alone saves you from the cycling issues that plague inertia-driven shotguns when switching between light and heavy loads. For occasional shooters or those on a tighter budget, the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge at nearly half the price might make more financial sense.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614858898 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011780205 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4- 2.75" Shells |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 38.9500 |
| package height | 3.6 |
| package width | 11.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 13.75 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front/Ivory Mid Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- It uses Browning's proprietary Invector-Plus choke system, which has a longer parallel section than standard Invector tubes. Aftermarket options from companies like Patternmaster and Carlson's are available, but you'll need to specify the Invector-Plus threading. The threads measure 0.810x32 TPI for precise fitting.
- Does it fit in a standard 28-inch shotgun case?
- The 47.25-inch overall length requires a case designed for full-size shotguns, not compact 28-inch cases. I recommend a 50-inch hard case from brands like Plano or Browning's own ABS case included with purchase. The included case has internal dimensions of 49.5 inches to accommodate the shotgun with chokes installed.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments from Ironclad Armory typically take 3-5 business days to reach Montana FFL dealers. We coordinate directly with your chosen FFL for background check completion. Expedited shipping via FedEx Priority Overnight adds $75 but guarantees next-day delivery to most locations.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms purchases are final once the background check completes, per ATF regulations. We recommend visiting a local dealer to handle the shotgun before purchasing. The adjustable stock shims allow length of pull adjustment from 14 to 14.5 inches if minor fitting issues arise.
- Does this work with a Carlson's choke tube?
- Yes, Carlson's manufactures Invector-Plus compatible choke tubes specifically for the Maxus II. Their waterfowl patterns with .665 constriction work particularly well for late-season geese. Just ensure you select the 'Browning Invector-Plus' option, not the standard Invector threading.