Browning Maxus 2 Wicked Wing Review – The Ultimate Waterfowl Shotgun
Introduction – Is the Browning Maxus 2 Wicked Wing Worth It?
The Browning Maxus 2 Wicked Wing is a premium semi-automatic shotgun designed specifically for waterfowl hunting. With its advanced gas-operated system, Cerakote Burnt Bronze finish, and premium-grade components, this shotgun delivers superior performance, reliability, and durability in the harshest hunting conditions.
If you’re looking for a top-tier waterfowl shotgun with cutting-edge technology, enhanced ergonomics, and sleek aesthetics, the Maxus 2 Wicked Wing might be the perfect choice. In this review, we’ll break down its features, performance, pros & cons, and how it compares to competitors to help you decide if it’s the right shotgun for your needs.
1. Browning Maxus 2 Wicked Wing – Key Features & Specifications
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Manufacturer | Browning |
Model | Maxus 2 Wicked Wing |
Gauge | 12 Gauge |
Action | Semi-Automatic Gas-Operated |
Chamber Size | 3.5” (Also compatible with 3” & 2.75”) |
Barrel Length | 26″, 28″, or 30″ |
Weight | Approx. 7 lbs (varies by barrel size) |
Finish | Burnt Bronze Cerakote Receiver & Barrel |
Stock & Forend | Composite with Mossy Oak Camo Finish |
Recoil System | Power Drive Gas System with SoftFlex Pad |
Magazine Capacity | 4+1 (Standard) |
Chokes Included | Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder |
Sights | Fiber-Optic Front Bead, Ivory Mid-Bead |
Safety | Oversized, Reversible Crossbolt Safety |
Use Case | Waterfowl Hunting, Sporting, and Target Shooting |
Performance & Hunting Experience
– Smooth & Reliable Gas-Operated Action
The Maxus 2 Wicked Wing is built with Browning’s Power Drive Gas System, which efficiently cycles a wide range of loads—from light 2.75″ shells to heavy 3.5″ magnum loads. This reduces recoil significantly while ensuring smooth and reliable cycling, even in wet and cold environments.
– Superior Recoil Management
Thanks to the SoftFlex cheek pad and Inflex Technology recoil pad, this shotgun provides exceptional recoil reduction, making it comfortable to shoot even with heavy waterfowl loads.
– Durable Cerakote & Weather-Resistant Finish
The Burnt Bronze Cerakote finish on the barrel and receiver enhances durability and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for hunting in extreme weather conditions. The composite stock with Mossy Oak camo ensures added concealment while being lightweight and rugged.
– Enhanced Handling & Ergonomics
The Maxus 2 features an enlarged trigger guard, oversized bolt handle, and an easy-loading magazine port, allowing for quick and effortless operation—even with gloves on.
– Fast Target Acquisition with Fiber-Optic Sights
The high-visibility fiber-optic front bead and ivory mid-bead sight ensure quick target acquisition, helping hunters track fast-moving ducks and geese with precision.
What Makes the Browning Maxus 2 Wicked Wing Stand Out?
🔹 Power Drive Gas System for Smooth Cycling
This advanced system automatically adjusts gas pressure to optimize performance with different loads, ensuring minimal muzzle rise and reliable shell ejection.
🔹. Reduced Recoil for All-Day Comfort
The combination of Inflex Technology and SoftFlex cheek pad makes the Maxus 2 one of the softest-shooting semi-auto shotguns in its class.
🔹 3. Premium Cerakote & Weatherproof Design
Unlike traditional blued barrels, the Cerakote Burnt Bronze finish offers superior resistance to rust and wear, extending the shotgun’s lifespan in wet conditions.
🔹 4. Extended Controls & User-Friendly Design
The large bolt handle, oversized bolt release, and easy-loading magazine system improve functionality, making operation seamless in high-stakes hunting situations.
How Does the Maxus II Wicked Wing Compare to Competitors?
Feature | Browning Maxus II Wicked Wing | Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 | Beretta A400 Xtreme + |
---|---|---|---|
Gauge | 12 Gauge | 12 Gauge | 12 Gauge |
Action | Semi-Auto Gas System | Semi-Auto Inertia-Driven | Semi-Auto Gas System |
Chamber Size | 3.5” | 3.5” | 3.5” |
Recoil System | Power Drive Gas + Inflex Pad | Comfortech 3 System | Kick-Off Mega System |
Weight | ~7 lbs | ~7 lbs | ~7.8 lbs |
Finish | Cerakote Burnt Bronze | Cerakote | Steelium Plus Coating |
Stock | Composite w/ Mossy Oak Camo | Composite Camo | Composite Camo |
Best For | Waterfowl Hunting, Sport Shooting | Waterfowl & Field Hunting | Waterfowl Hunting |
Key Takeaways:
The Browning Maxus 2 provides the best recoil reduction of the three.
The Benelli SBE III has an inertia-driven system, making it slightly lighter but with more felt recoil.
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus is heavier but offers premium durability and accuracy.
Pros & Cons of the Browning Maxus 2 Wicked Wing
Pros:
Ultra-Reliable Gas System – Handles all load types with smooth cycling.
Best-in-Class Recoil Reduction – Perfect for all-day hunting.
Weatherproof & Durable – Cerakote finish withstands tough conditions.
Enhanced Ergonomics – Oversized controls for easy operation.
Quick Target Acquisition – Fiber-optic front bead for precision shooting.
Cons:
Higher Price Point – More expensive than entry-level semi-autos.
Gas System Requires Occasional Cleaning – Less maintenance-free than inertia-driven models.
Not as Customizable – Limited aftermarket stock and forend options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Maxus 2 Wicked Wing best used for?
The Browning Maxus 2 Wicked Wing is primarily designed for waterfowl hunting, but it also performs well in sport shooting and upland bird hunting.
2. Does the Maxus 2 handle heavy 3.5” loads well?
Yes! The Power Drive Gas System is optimized for cycling everything from light 2.75” loads to heavy 3.5” shells, ensuring smooth operation and reduced recoil.
3. How does the Maxus 2 compare to a Benelli Super Black Eagle 3?
The Maxus 2 has lower recoil due to its gas system and Inflex recoil pad, while the Benelli SBE 3 is slightly lighter due to its inertia-driven system. Both are excellent for waterfowl hunting.
4. Is this shotgun worth the price?
Yes! If you want a high-performance, durable, and ergonomic semi-auto shotgun for waterfowl hunting, the Browning Maxus II Wicked Wing is an excellent investment.
Ally –
Fast
Cal –
Quicker than I thought
Yanick –
Accuracy,comfortable