The most used elephant cartridge in colonial Africa. Smaller than the .600 NE but still generating over 6,000 ft-lbs, it was the professional hunter's choice for elephant at close range.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1900, United Kingdom
Parent case: None
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.585" (14.86 mm)
Case length: 3" (76.2 mm)
Overall length: 3.74" (94.99 mm)
Max pressure: 36,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Rifle Magnum
Typical twist rate: 1:26
Muzzle velocity: 1950–2100 fps
Muzzle energy: 6338–7349 ft-lbs
Effective range: 75 yd
Common bullet weights: 750 gr
Primary use: Dangerous Game
Production status: Active
Also known as: .577 NE · .577 Nitro Express
History: Developed around 1900 for the British African colonial market. The 750-grain bullet at 2,050 fps generates the kind of stopping power needed when an elephant is at 10 yards and accelerating. Used extensively by professional hunters throughout the colonial era. Selous, Bell, and other legendary hunters carried variations of this cartridge.
Notable firearms: H&H Royal Double, Purdey Double, Lancaster Double
Similar cartridges: .600 Nitro Express, .500 Nitro Express, .470 Nitro Express