Description
The Browning Maxus II Black Gold 12 gauge semi-auto is a field-grade autoloader that pairs Grade III Turkish walnut with a deeply engraved black receiver and gold accents. It cycles everything from light target loads to heavy magnum shells using Browning’s own Power Drive gas system, and it comes with three Invector-Plus choke tubes and a fitted ABS hard case. This shotgun is ready for dove fields, duck blinds, and sporting clays right out of the box.
| Manufacturer | Browning |
|---|---|
| Model | Maxus II Black Gold |
| Material | Grade III Turkish walnut stock and fore-end; aluminum alloy receiver |
| Compatibility | 12-gauge 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells |
| Finish | Black oxide receiver with gold trigger and gold accents; gloss oil finish on wood |
| Weight | 7 lb. 5 oz. (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Power Drive Gas System – why it matters: This self-regulating gas piston reduces felt recoil and cycles reliably across a wide range of ammunition, from light 1-ounce target loads to heavy 3-inch magnums, without manual adjustment.
- SoftFlex Cheekpad – why it matters: The pliable, textured cheekpiece cushions your face during recoil, reduces cheek slap, and keeps your head anchored for consistent shot placement.
- Shim-Adjustable Stock – why it matters: You can change drop and cast at the stock-to-receiver interface to dial in fit for your build, which directly improves point-of-impact and shooting comfort.
- Inflex II Recoil Pad – why it matters: This stepped, gel-filled pad soaks up 25% more recoil than standard pads (per Browning specs) and does not snag on clothing when shouldering quickly.
- Three Invector-Plus Choke Tubes – why it matters: You get Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder tubes right in the box, so you can switch between dove, quail, and turkey loads without buying extra accessories.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for the southern bird hunter who wants a refined, reliable autoloader for doves, quail, pheasants, and occasional sporting clays. The Grade III walnut and gold accents appeal to shooters who appreciate traditional looks, while the modern gas system and adjustable stock suit hunters who shoot a mix of load types.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Cycles light target loads reliably; shim system allows custom fit; beautiful Grade III wood; Inflex II pad reduces felt recoil noticeably; includes hard case and three chokes.
Cons: The gloss finish on the stock shows scratches and dings more readily than a matte or satin finish; shooters with very large hands may find the fore-end a bit slender for a firm grip in wet conditions.
Comparison
| Feature | Browning Maxus II Black Gold | Beretta A400 Xcel | Benelli M2 Field |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas System | Power Drive (self-regulating) | Kick-Off Plus (self-regulating) | Inertia-driven (no gas) |
| Stock Adjustability | Shim system (drop & cast) | Shim system + comb adjustment | Shim system (drop & cast) |
| Recoil Pad | Inflex II (stepped gel pad) | Kick-Off hydraulic | Comfortech (chevron pattern) |
| Wood Grade | Grade III Turkish walnut | Grade II walnut | Walnut (standard grade) |
| Weight | 7 lb. 5 oz. | 7 lb. 3 oz. | 7 lb. 2 oz. |
| Price | $1,999.99 | $2,099.00 | $1,699.00 |
FAQ
Will this shotgun cycle 1-ounce target loads reliably?
Yes. The Power Drive gas system is self-regulating and handles 1-ounce, 2¾-inch target loads without short-stroking or failing to eject. Many shooters report 100% reliability on light loads right out of the box.
Can I use 3½-inch shells in this Maxus II Black Gold?
No. This model is chambered for 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells only. Browning offers a separate 3½-inch chambered Maxus II if you need magnum waterfowl loads.
Does the stock come with shims, or do I have to buy them separate?
The stock ships with a complete shim kit (four shims) that allow you to adjust drop from 1¼-inch to 1¾-inch and cast from neutral to ¼-inch right or left. No extra purchase needed.
What choke tube pattern does this shotgun use?
It uses the Browning Invector-Plus pattern, which is standard on most modern Browning shotguns. Three tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) are included in the ABS case.
Buy with Confidence
- ✓ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✓ Ships within 1–2 business days
- ✓ 30-day return policy on unfired shotguns
- ✓ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Last updated: April 2026
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