Browning Maxus II Sporting Carbon Fiber 12 Gauge 30in
About this product
The Browning Maxus II Sporting Carbon Fiber 12 Gauge 30in is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun built specifically for competitive sporting clays and field target applications. It combines Browning's Power Drive gas system with 30 inches of precisely regulated barrel length to deliver consistent swing characteristics and reduced felt recoil. The carbon fiber hydrographic finish provides both visual distinction and corrosion resistance across the synthetic stock and forend.
What is the Browning Maxus II Sporting Carbon Fiber used for?
This shotgun is optimized for competitive sporting clays, trap, and skeet shooting where shot-to-shot consistency matters. The 30-inch barrel creates a 54.5-inch overall length that delivers smooth swing characteristics ideal for breaking clays at varying distances. With its 4+1 capacity and included five Invector-Plus Midas choke tubes, it's built for tournament environments where reliability counts.
How does the Browning Maxus II compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Maxus II outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in in recoil management and rapid follow-up shots. Browning's gas system reduces felt recoil by approximately 32% compared to the Stevens' fixed-breech design, allowing faster target reacquisition. The Stevens retains an advantage in instantaneous choke selection with its dual-barrel configuration.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7 pounds 8 ounces with an empty magazine and measures 54.5 inches overall length. The 30-inch barrel provides the stability competitive shooters need while maintaining a balanced 14.25-inch length of pull. The synthetic stock construction keeps weight manageable during extended shooting sessions.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for hunters needing compact mobility or tactical shooters requiring high-capacity magazines. The 30-inch barrel makes it cumbersome in blinds or dense cover, and the 4+1 capacity falls short of tactical requirements. For those applications, consider a Stevens 334 rifle or compact shotgun configuration.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, five Invector-Plus Midas choke tubes (F, IC, IM, M, SK), an ABS hard case, and flat wrench. Browning provides complete choke selection covering patterns from improved cylinder to full constriction. The ABS case offers adequate protection but lacks the pluck-foam customization of premium cases.
Is the Browning Maxus II worth it at $1865.99?
At $1865.99, this represents solid value for serious clay target shooters who'll benefit from its recoil reduction and reliability. The gas system cycles everything from 2¾-inch target loads to 3-inch magnums without adjustment, saving time during practice sessions. Compared to European competitors costing $500+ more, the Maxus II delivers 90% of the performance at 70% of the price.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Power Drive gas system reduces felt recoil by 32% compared to inertia systems
- Includes 5 Invector-Plus Midas choke tubes (F, IC, IM, M, SK) — $180 value separately
- Weighs 7 pounds 8 ounces — 14 ounces lighter than Beretta A400 Xcel
- Cycles 2¾-inch to 3-inch shells without manual adjustment
Trade-offs
- Carbon fiber is hydrographic dip only — adds $0 functional weight reduction
- 30-inch barrel limits maneuverability in field hunting scenarios
- ABS case lacks customizable foam — upgrade costs $85-150 for proper protection
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614740957 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 011708303 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Carbon Fiber Dipped |
| barrel length | 30" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 |
| chokes included | F,IC,IM,M,SK |
| color | Black |
| length | 38.9500 |
| package height | 3.8 |
| package width | 11.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 14.65 |
| sights | HiViz TriComp Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it accepts any Invector-Plus threaded choke tubes from manufacturers like Briley or Carlson's. The factory Midas chokes use standard Invector-Plus threads with a length of 2.5 inches. I recommend sticking with Browning-approved chokes to maintain warranty coverage.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping takes 3-7 business days for in-stock firearms. All shipments require FFL destination verification which adds approximately 24 hours processing time. Expedited 2-day shipping is available for an additional $45 through FedEx.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once the 4473 transfer is complete due to federal regulations. We recommend handling similar models at your local FFL before purchasing. Ironclad Armory covers manufacturing defects through Browning's 5-year warranty process.
- Is it compatible with shoulder pads?
- The Inflex Technology recoil pad is proprietary and not designed for aftermarket replacement. It provides approximately 1.25 inches of compression to reduce felt recoil. For additional padding, consider slip-on recoil pads that fit over the existing stock.