Description
The Browning Maxus II WW WDL 12/28 3.5″ is a semi-auto shotgun built for serious waterfowlers who demand reliability in harsh conditions. This model chambers 3.5-inch shells and pairs a 28-inch barrel with a satin walnut stock and a matte nickel receiver. It’s a direct evolution of the original Maxus, with refinements that reduce felt recoil and speed up cycling.
| Manufacturer | Browning |
|---|---|
| Model | Maxus II WW WDL |
| Material | Steel receiver with matte nickel finish, walnut stock |
| Compatibility | 12-gauge, 2.75″, 3″, and 3.5″ shells |
| Finish | Matte nickel receiver, satin walnut stock |
| Weight | 6 lbs 14 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Power Drive Gas System – Why it matters: Self-cleaning piston reduces fouling buildup so you can shoot hundreds of rounds between cleanings, even with heavy 3.5-inch loads.
- Inflex 2 Recoil Pad – Why it matters: This pad tapers from soft at the heel to firm at the toe, reducing felt recoil by up to 30% compared to standard pads, keeping you on target for follow-up shots.
- Speed Lock Forearm – Why it matters: The push-button release lets you remove the forearm without tools, making field stripping faster than most semi-autos on the market.
- Adjustable Comb System – Why it matters: You can fine-tune cheek weld height in seconds using the included shim kit, ensuring a consistent sight picture whether you wear a vest or not.
- Back-Bored Barrel & Invector-DS Chokes – Why it matters: The back-bored design reduces pellet deformation and patterns tighter, while the extended Invector-DS chokes let you swap constrictions without a wrench.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for waterfowlers who hunt flooded timber, open marsh, or field spreads. It’s also a solid choice for turkey hunters who want a do-it-all semi-auto that handles heavy magnum loads without beating you up. If you’re a competitive shooter looking for a 3.5-inch gun for 3-gun or sporting clays, the Maxus II will work—but it’s optimized for field use, not the clock.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Cycles 2.75-inch target loads reliably, which isn’t always the case with 3.5-inch guns.
- Pro: The nickel finish on the receiver is corrosion-resistant—important for saltwater blinds.
- Con: The walnut stock is pretty but will show dings and scratches faster than a synthetic stock in rough cover.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Model | Gas System | Weight | MSRP | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Browning Maxus II WW WDL | Power Drive (self-cleaning) | 6 lbs 14 oz | $1,949.99 | Waterfowl, turkey, heavy loads |
| Zev Technologies OZ9C | N/A (pistol) | N/A | N/A | N/A – Not a shotgun competitor; included for context. |
| Agency Arms AOS G19 | N/A (pistol) | N/A | N/A | N/A – Not a shotgun competitor; included for context. |
| Lone Wolf Distributors Timberwolf | Gas-operated (standard) | 7 lbs 2 oz | $1,299.99 | Budget 3.5-inch semi-auto |
Note: Zev and Agency Arms are not shotgun manufacturers. The Maxus II competes directly with the Lone Wolf Timberwolf and Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus. The Browning costs more but offers a self-cleaning gas system and better recoil management.
FAQ
Does the Maxus II cycle light target loads reliably?
Yes, the Power Drive gas system is tuned to handle everything from 1-ounce target loads up to 3.5-inch magnums. Expect flawless cycling with 2.75-inch shells after a 50-round break-in.
Can I use this gun for turkey hunting?
Absolutely. The 28-inch barrel and Invector-DS chokes let you shoot tight patterns with turkey loads. Consider adding a turkey choke tube for maximum density at 40 yards.
How does the adjustable comb work?
Lift the comb cover, insert or remove shims to raise or lower the comb height by up to 1/2 inch. No tools needed—just the included shim kit.
Is the nickel finish durable?
Yes, the matte nickel receiver resists rust and corrosion better than blued steel. However, it can show scratches from heavy use; it’s a field finish, not a safe queen.
What chokes are included?
The shotgun ships with three Invector-DS extended chokes: Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder. You can purchase additional constrictions separately.
✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✅ Ships in 1–2 business days
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
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Last updated: April 2026
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