Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Browning Maxus II Mossy Oak Bottomland 12 Gauge 3.5in is a robust semi-automatic shotgun built for serious waterfowl and turkey hunting. Its advanced gas-operated system handles a wide range of loads reliably. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Browning Maxus II Mossy Oak Bottomland?
| Product Type | Semi-Automatic Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Alloy Receiver, Composite Stock, Steel Barrel |
| Manufacturing | Browning Arms Company |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland Camouflage |
| Hardness/Quality | Receiver: Aircraft-grade aluminum; Barrel: Chrome-lined; Stock: Durable composite |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge, accepts 2-3/4″, 3″, and 3.5″ shells |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to shoot out of the box; easy field stripping for cleaning |
| Weight | Approximately 7 lbs (varies by barrel length) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: ~49.25 inches (with 28″ barrel); Barrel Length: 28 inches |
| Country of Origin | Portugal |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 011244204 |
What are the key features of the Browning Maxus II?
The Browning Maxus II Mossy Oak Bottomland brings several enhancements over its predecessor, focusing on ergonomics, reliability, and ease of use in the field. The Power Drive Gas System is a proven design, ensuring consistent cycling across a broad spectrum of loads, from light target shells to heavy 3.5-inch magnums. This is particularly important for hunters who might switch between different loads for ducks, geese, or turkey.
One of the most noticeable improvements is the redesigned stock and forend. The SoftFlex cheek pad and Inflex Technology recoil pad work together to significantly reduce felt recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and more comfortable, especially with those magnum loads. The oversized bolt handle and bolt release are also welcome additions, making manipulation easier when wearing gloves or in cold, wet conditions – something you appreciate when you’re out in a Kansas marsh in November.
The Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage pattern isn’t just for looks; it’s a time-tested pattern that helps break up the shotgun’s outline in various hunting environments. From timber to open fields, this pattern blends in well. The chrome-lined bore is another practical feature, offering increased durability and making cleaning a less arduous task after a muddy hunt.
Who is the Browning Maxus II Mossy Oak Bottomland for?
This shotgun is built for the serious waterfowl and turkey hunter who demands reliability and comfort in challenging conditions. If you’re spending long hours in a blind or trudging through swamps, the Maxus II’s recoil reduction and ergonomic design will be appreciated. It’s also a solid choice for someone looking for a versatile semi-auto that can handle anything from doves to large geese, thanks to its 3.5-inch chamber. Its robust construction means it’s not afraid of mud, rain, or rough handling.
What are the pros and cons of the Browning Maxus II?
Having handled and seen plenty of these come through the shop, here’s my take:
- ✅ Exceptional Recoil Reduction: The combination of the SoftFlex cheek pad and Inflex recoil pad makes shooting even heavy 3.5-inch loads surprisingly manageable. Your shoulder will thank you after a long day in the field.
- ✅ Reliable Gas System: The Power Drive Gas System is very forgiving with different loads and runs clean, which means fewer malfunctions when you need it most.
- ✅ Improved Ergonomics: The oversized bolt handle, bolt release, and redesigned forend make handling easier, especially with gloves or cold hands.
- ✅ Durable Finish: Mossy Oak Bottomland isn’t just effective camouflage; it’s a tough finish that holds up well to the elements. The chrome-lined bore adds to the longevity.
- ✅ Versatile Chamber: The 3.5-inch chamber means you can confidently hunt any legal game bird in North America.
- ❌ Price Point: At $499.00, it’s an investment. While you get what you pay for in terms of features and reliability, it might be more than some casual shooters want to spend. (See our entry-level shotguns for more budget-friendly options).
- ❌ Weight: While not excessively heavy, it’s not a featherlight upland gun. The weight contributes to recoil reduction but might be noticeable on long treks.
- ❌ Cleaning Complexity: Gas-operated shotguns generally require a bit more attention to cleaning the gas system than inertia-driven models to maintain peak reliability.
How does the Browning Maxus II compare to other shotguns?
Let’s put the Browning Maxus II up against a couple of common alternatives you might consider:
| Feature | Browning Maxus II Mossy Oak Bottomland | Stoeger M3500 | Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 (SBE3) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Alloy Receiver, Composite Stock, Steel Barrel | Aluminum Alloy Receiver, Synthetic Stock, Steel Barrel | Aluminum Alloy Receiver, Synthetic Stock, Steel Barrel |
| Quality | High-end, robust construction, refined fit and finish | Mid-range, functional, good value | Premium, high-tolerance, flagship model |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge, 2.75″, 3″, 3.5″ shells | 12 Gauge, 2.75″, 3″, 3.5″ shells | 12 Gauge, 2.75″, 3″, 3.5″ shells |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS via Kansas Gunshop | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Excellent, built for heavy use, chrome-lined bore | Good, solid workhorse, reliable | Exceptional, renowned for longevity and reliability |
| Price | $499.00 | ~$700-$850 | ~$1800-$2200 |
The Maxus II sits comfortably in the middle to upper-middle tier. It offers many of the comfort and reliability features found in premium guns like the Benelli SBE3, especially in terms of recoil reduction and handling, but at a more accessible price point. The Stoeger M3500 is a value-oriented 3.5-inch inertia gun; it’s reliable but lacks the Maxus II’s advanced gas system recoil mitigation and refined ergonomics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Browning Maxus II Mossy Oak Bottomland?
The Browning Maxus II typically has a capacity of 4+1 rounds with 2-3/4″ or 3″ shells, and 3+1 with 3.5″ shells. It comes with a magazine plug installed from the factory to comply with federal migratory bird hunting regulations, limiting it to 2+1 rounds.
Is the Browning Maxus II suitable for hunting in wet conditions?
Yes, the Browning Maxus II is designed with hunters in mind, particularly for waterfowl. The Mossy Oak Bottomland finish provides corrosion resistance, and the composite stock is impervious to moisture. The chrome-lined bore also adds to its durability in harsh, wet environments.
Can I use different chokes with the Browning Maxus II?
Absolutely. The Browning Maxus II Mossy Oak Bottomland comes with a set of Invector-Plus choke tubes, typically Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder. You can purchase additional Invector-Plus choke tubes for various hunting applications or target shooting.
What kind of recoil can I expect from the Browning Maxus II with 3.5-inch shells?
While 3.5-inch shells generate significant recoil, the Maxus II is specifically engineered to mitigate it. The Inflex Technology recoil pad and SoftFlex cheek pad are very effective, making the felt recoil surprisingly manageable for a 3.5-inch shotgun. It’s one of the most comfortable 3.5-inch guns to shoot.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can buy shotguns online from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We facilitate the online purchase and arrange for the firearm to be shipped to your local FFL for transfer, adhering to all federal and state laws.
What maintenance does the Power Drive Gas System require?
Like all gas-operated shotguns, the Power Drive Gas System will require periodic cleaning to ensure optimal reliability. It’s a relatively simple system to disassemble and clean, and keeping the gas piston and cylinder free of carbon buildup is key to consistent performance, especially when using a variety of shell types.
Is the Browning Maxus II a good choice for clay target shooting?
While primarily designed as a hunting shotgun, the Maxus II’s low recoil and smooth cycling make it a comfortable option for clay target shooting, especially for high-volume days. However, its camouflage finish might not be preferred by all sporting clays shooters, and its weight is geared more towards field use than dedicated clay target models.
✅ Same-day shipping from Wichita, KS
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
Buy it if:
- You’re a serious waterfowl or turkey hunter looking for a reliable, comfortable 3.5-inch semi-auto.
- You prioritize recoil reduction and ergonomic handling for long days in the field.
- You need a shotgun that can handle a wide range of loads without a hiccup.
- You appreciate a durable, field-ready finish like Mossy Oak Bottomland.
Skip it if:
- You’re on a very tight budget and only need a basic, functional shotgun. (Consider our value-priced pump-action shotguns).
- You primarily shoot upland birds and prefer a lighter, faster-swinging gun.
- You dislike the slightly more involved cleaning process of gas-operated systems.
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