Nitro Express

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The Nitro Express (NE) series of cartridges are used in large-bore hunting rifles, also known as elephant guns or express rifles. They are named after the propellant they use, cordite, which is composed of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine. Express from express train, due to the substantially higher velocities available with cordite compared to black powder loadings. The term was coined by James Purdey the younger in 1856 to publicise his double rifles. Some of the Nitro Express cartridges remain popular today due to their effectiveness on dangerous game. The .470 NE is perhaps the most popular.[1] The .700 NE is one of the most powerful non-military rifle cartridges.

List of Nitro Express calibers[edit]


  1. ^ "The .450 Nitro Express" by Charlie Haley

External links[edit]

Nitro Express: The Big Bang of the Big Bang by Terry Wieland

African Expedition Magazine - The 375 Flanged Nitro Express