Browning Maxus II 12 Gauge 3.5″ 26″ Mossy Oak

Description

The Browning Maxus II 12 Gauge 3.5″ 26″ Mossy Oak is a semi-auto built for the shooter who demands reliability across the widest range of 12-gauge loads. Browning’s Power Drive gas system cycles everything from light target shells to heavy 3.5″ magnums, while the back-bored barrel and Inflex Technology recoil pad keep you on target shot after shot. This is a field and waterfowl gun that doesn’t cut corners on ergonomics or finish.

Manufacturer	Browning
Model	Maxus II
Material	Synthetic stock with overmolded grip panels; aluminum receiver
Compatibility	12-gauge; 2.75″, 3″, and 3.5″ shells
Finish	Mossy Oak Bottomland (full coverage)
Weight	Approx. 6 lbs 15 oz (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Power Drive Gas System — Why it matters: Self-regulating piston tames heavy 3.5″ loads and cycles light 2.75″ target shells without adjustment, so you can grab one gun for dove, duck, and deer.
• Back-Bored 26″ Vent Rib Barrel — Why it matters: Reduces friction as the shot travels, delivering tighter patterns and up to 15% less felt recoil compared to standard bores.
• Inflex Technology Recoil Pad — Why it matters: Directional recoil absorption directs kick down, not back into your shoulder, letting you shoot longer with less fatigue.
• Oversize Bolt Handle & Bolt Release — Why it matters: Gloved hands in cold weather or wet conditions get positive purchase every time—no fumbling for controls.
• SoftFlex Cheek Pad & Overmolded Grip Panels — Why it matters: Reduces cheek slap and ensures a non-slip hold, even in rain or when your hands are sweaty from a long hike.

Who It’s For

This shotgun fits the serious waterfowler who hunts flooded timber, open marshes, and field edges. It also suits the upland hunter who needs a fast-swinging 26″ barrel that handles heavy loads for geese and light loads for pheasants. If you want a gas-operated semi-auto that runs without constant tinkering, the Maxus II is your rig.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Cycles 3.5″ magnums and 1-ounce target loads without any gas-port adjustments. Con: At 6 lbs 15 oz, it’s slightly heavier than some inertia-driven competitors, which matters if you hump miles through swamps.
• Pro: Mossy Oak Bottomland finish offers excellent concealment in marsh and timber. Con: The synthetic stock can be slick in extreme cold without gloves—the overmolded grip panels help, but a textured fore-end would be welcome.
• Pro: Tool-less disassembly for cleaning after a muddy hunt. Con: The gas system requires more frequent cleaning than a simple inertia gun, especially if you shoot heavy loads.

Comparison

Feature	Browning Maxus II	Benelli Super Black Eagle 3	Beretta A400 Xcel
Action Type	Gas-operated (Power Drive)	Inertia-driven	Gas-operated (Kick-Off)
Chamber	3.5″	3.5″	3″
Barrel Length	26″	26″	28″
Recoil Reduction	Inflex pad + back-bored barrel	Comfortech stock	Kick-Off hydraulic system
Weight	6 lbs 15 oz	6.7 lbs	7.2 lbs
Finish Options	Mossy Oak Bottomland, Realtree	Mossy Oak, Realtree, camo	Black, synthetic

FAQ

Will the Browning Maxus II 12 Gauge 3.5″ 26″ Mossy Oak cycle light target loads reliably?

Yes. The Power Drive gas system is designed to handle the full spectrum of 12-gauge ammunition. It cycles 2.75″ target loads (1-1/8 oz at 1200 fps) and 3.5″ magnum waterfowl loads without any manual adjustments to the gas ports.

What is the barrel length and choke system on this Maxus II?

It ships with a 26″ back-bored vent rib barrel and a 3.5″ chamber. The barrel accepts Browning Invector-DS chokes (extended-length, flush-fit compatible). The gun includes three chokes: Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder.

Is the Mossy Oak Bottomland finish durable for saltwater marsh hunting?

Yes. The full-coverage Mossy Oak Bottomland is a dip-applied film that resists corrosion and UV fading. Per Browning specs, the finish is applied over a phosphated metal surface for additional rust resistance. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use.

How does the Maxus II compare to the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 for recoil?

The Maxus II uses a gas-operated system that spreads recoil impulse over a longer duration, while the Benelli uses an inertia system with a shorter, sharper kick. The Maxus II’s Inflex pad and back-bored barrel further reduce felt recoil by about 20% compared to a standard gas gun, making it more comfortable for high-volume shooting.

Can I change the stock length or add a shim kit?

Yes. The Maxus II comes with a shim kit that allows you to adjust drop and cast for a custom fit. The synthetic stock also accepts aftermarket recoil pads if you need additional length of pull.

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Last updated: April 2026

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