The Browning Maxus II Black Gold is a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun with a 28-inch barrel, 3-inch chamber, and a Grade III Turkish walnut stock. At 7 lbs. 3 oz. and 49.375 inches overall, it's a full-sized field gun well-suited to waterfowl hunting and sporting clays. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Browning 
• Family: Maxus Series 
• Model: Maxus II Black Gold 
• Type: Shotgun 
• Action: Semi-Auto 
• Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge 
• Finish: Black 
• Stock/Grips: Grade III Turkish Walnut Stock 
• Barrel Length: 28" 
• Overall Length: 49.375" 
• Capacity: 2+1 (Listed Capacity Based On Manufacturer Specifications) 
• Weight: 7 lbs. 3 oz. 
• Chamber Size: 3" 
• Choke Options: F, M, IC (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) 
• Sights Type: Fixed Sights with Fiber Optic Front Sight 
• Additional Features: 
  • Close Radius Grip 
  • Inflex II Recoil Pad 
     

Detailed Features 

The semi-automatic action cycles shells without manually working the action between shots, which is the main practical advantage for hunting or clays where follow-up shots matter. The fiber optic front sight helps with target acquisition in low-light morning hunts. Browning's Inflex II recoil pad redirects the stock downward during recoil, which reduces muzzle flip and keeps the shooter's cheek on the stock more naturally. The close radius pistol grip puts the trigger hand in a more neutral position, which can reduce wrist strain during long shooting sessions. Three choke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder) are included to cover different hunting and sporting clays distances.

The Maxus II Black Gold draws positive feedback from both hunters and sporting clays shooters. The action is the most-praised aspect. It cycles reliably across a range of loads, including lighter target loads that can short-cycle gas-operated guns. Recoil is noticeably softer than expected for a 12-gauge, which shooters attribute to the Inflex II pad and the gas system working together.

The Grade III walnut stock gets frequent compliments for its appearance. Combined with the black finish, it has a classic look that stands out on the range.

The main friction point is price. Most users consider it a justified investment for serious hunting or competition use, but casual or occasional shooters question whether the premium over more utilitarian semi-autos is worth it for their use case. A small number of users note the weight, 7 lbs. 3 oz. is moderate, not light, and it adds up during a full day of field hunting.