Browning Maxus

About the Browning Maxus

The Browning Maxus is a 12-gauge gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun introduced in 2009 as Browning's flagship autoloader, and updated as the Maxus II in 2021. Despite the name's family resemblance to historic inertia-driven Browning shotguns, the Maxus is purely gas-operated, employing the proprietary Power Drive Gas System with an oversized exhaust port and gas piston designed to reliably cycle everything from light 2-3/4 inch target loads to heavy 3-1/2 inch waterfowl shells without adjustment. The Maxus is engineered for shooters who want a soft-recoiling, fast-cycling autoloader that handles the punishing 12/89 (3-1/2 inch) magnum loads favored by waterfowl hunters. Key features include the SpeedLoad Plus magazine system that automatically chambers the first shell loaded into the magazine tube, a SpeedLock forearm latch that allows tool-less takedown, a Lightning Trigger with a clean 3.75-pound break, and Invector-Plus choke tubes. Recoil management is handled by Browning's Inflex recoil pad and SoftFlex cheekpiece, which together cut felt recoil substantially. The Maxus II refresh added improved ergonomics, a new Cerakote Burnt Bronze finish option, an improved trigger guard, and updated stock geometry. Available in classic walnut, synthetic black, several Mossy Oak camouflage patterns, and a competition-focused Sporting Carbon Fiber model.

When Browning launched the Maxus in 2009 it claimed the Power Drive Gas System cut felt recoil by up to 18 percent over comparable autoloaders, a claim derived in part from running the system 1500 rounds without cleaning during development. The shotgun became a fixture in waterfowl blinds where the ability to digest 3-1/2 inch magnum loads while still cycling light dove loads is rare and prized.

Browning Maxus specifications

The Maxus uses a true gas-piston operating system, not an inertia system. The Maxus II appeared at SHOT Show 2021 as the successor to the original Maxus while retaining the same Power Drive Gas System. Magazine capacity is 4+1 with 12/70 cartridges. Chamber options include 12/76 (3 inch) and 12/89 (3.5 inch). Manufactured at FN Herstal in Belgium for Browning, with assembly and final finishing depending on model.