Browning Maxus II in Realtree Max-5 camo

When it comes to wildfowling, whether after duck or goose, it’s not uncommon to hear the Browning semi-auto mentioned as one of the best guns to use out on the marshes, fields and pools. After all, Browning were the ones that invented the gas semi-auto way, way back, about two centuries ago. In the time since, Browning’s gas-operated semi-autos have become legendary. The Maxus, which came out in 2009 (believe it or not!) certainly proved its worth over the years. Since then, the Maxus has had an overhaul and its upgrades have taken the already super reliable, easy-to-shoot gun to another level.

The Maxus II has a few features and design changes that have enhanced the versatility and usability of an already brilliant semi auto, but not everything has been through the upgrade division at Browning; there are still many features of the old Maxus present in the new one, and that’s simply because you don’t have to change something that is already brilliant, i.e. the gas operating system. Cleaning the system is as easy as cleaning your teeth – no fuss, no stress, and a technical skill level equivalent to peeling potatoes. The synthetic finish is also easy to wipe down.

First impressions

The Maxus II comes in a plastic travel case, which includes five chokes, spacers for altering the length of pull, and enough shims to set the cast and comb to more variations than a tin of Quality Street. There’s the usual user manual, which I suggest you read (don’t do the usual bloke thing and not bother with it until you’ve got yourself in such a muddle that there’s no way back).

The first thing that leapt out at me was the change Browning have made to the stock of the Maxus II, and being honest, it altered my mood from excitement to confusion – what on earth have they done here?! Browning decided to put a flat parallel section on the stock near the toe and, quite frankly, for me it doesn’t do much in the way of aesthetics! But despite a momentary loss of faith, I knew there would be a reason behind this unappealing detail. It turns out that the parallel section is actually a very simple but brilliant design which allows shortening of the stock for people who require a shorter length of pull; this can now be done easily without ruining the stock (which happens in most cases when a gun stock is whittled to a virtual stump). The beauty of this design by Browning means that the gun can be lengthened by adding the spacers or recoil pad that come with the gun, or by purchasing more if required from Browning… genius usually is simple, even if it’s a bit ugly!

Barrel and fore-end

I was and still am a lover of the original Maxus, and I do like the lever locking system of the fore-end featured on the original, much like you find on an over-and-under. It did, however, have its limitations – you weren’t able to extend the magazine tube to incorporate an extender to take it from 2+1 to the now possible 9+1. This is now possible because Browning have gone back to the original screw cap system that fastens the barrel and fore-end to the action, which also allows a magazine extension tube if required. The barrel has a 3½" chamber and is proofed for high performance steel, so will accommodate any load, even the monster rounds that can punch holes into clouds. Happily, though, the Maxus II will also cycle as little as 24g shells without issue. So, it’s pretty good and versatile at covering a range of ammo suitable for the desires and wishes of any shooter out there. The multi-choke barrel also allows the shooter to alter chokes for various quarries and ranges.

Safety

I’ve one gripe with this gun, as I do with all semi-autos that feature the safety button behind the trigger (especially safety buttons that protrude even when in the firing position, meaning you can feel it on your trigger finger, which is the case with the Maxus II). It’s not alone in having this flaw by any means, and safety buttons are a bit of a personal bug bear of mine…

Trigger

As we’re talking about the safety button being near the trigger, it leads me naturally on to this element of the gun. The oversized trigger guard is great – you could be wearing any kind of gloves (save for maybe boxing gloves) and you’re still going to be able to actually get your finger inside the guard without any hindrance. A useful feature in a wildfowling gun, as we all know how chilly those long waits can get! The trigger is also crisp and consistent – no surprises here.

Bolt handle

The Maxus II comes with an oversized bolt handle to allow easier operation of the bolt, and it also features an oversized bolt release button if you want to use it to load the gun. It does, however, come with the speed loading system, so if you wish you can load the gun either with the button or just by feeding the magazine tube. The bolt operates automatically, stuffing the first round into the chamber… nice!

Finish

The Maxus II was built with waterfowlers in mind, with a synthetic stock that doesn’t mind getting wet. The whole gun is covered with the MAX-5 camo pattern, which creates a super-realistic tone, contrast and shadow. Realtree MAX-5 camouflage is filled with foliage to hide you in marshes, even open fields, giving you another advantage over the quarry.

How does it shoot?

As you’d expect, the Browning Maxus II handles and performs faultlessly, and is comfortable to shoot, particularly with that soft touch cheekpiece to rest on. It’s got nice balance and a good, smooth swing. It is also a very reliable gun that cycled everything I put through it very well, including those 24g shells I mentioned earlier. The red fibre optic bead would come in handy for aiding visibility during moonlit flights. All in all, a nice gun and one designed very well for its intended job – wildfowling.

Tech specs

■ Make: Browning

■ Model: Maxus II

■ Gauge: 12-bore

■ Chamber: 3½"

■ Action: Gas cycling semi-automatic

■ Capacity: 2+1

■ Chokes: Browning Invector Plus Extended, IC, M, F

■ Barrel: Flat rib, front fibre-optic bead

■ Barrel lengths available: 26" and 28"

■ Finish: Realtree Max 5 Camo (tested). Other options available (prices start from £1,499)

■ Recoil Pad: Inflex II

■ Overall weight: 7.2lb

■ SRP: £1,599

■ Visit: en.browning.eu

Conclusion: The Nickel Teflon coating on the bolt, shell carrier and handle protect from wear and add lubricity for fautless function.