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Quick Look

The 470 Nitro Express emerged in the early 20th century as a powerful big-game cartridge. Designed for dangerous game in Africa, it delivers deep penetration and massive energy transfer. Today, it's a favored choice among safari hunters seeking reliability in extreme conditions.

Why It's a Top Choice

Trusted for stopping power on African big game
Reliable extraction in double rifles and break-actions
Deep-penetrating projectiles for thick-skinned game
Proven performance under extreme heat and dust
Legacy cartridge with modern manufacturing quality

Key Variants

470 Nitro Express Double Rifle

Classic pairing for this caliber; ideal for traditional safari hunters requiring a fast second shot.

470 Nitro Express Single Shot

Appeals to collectors and experienced hunters wanting simplicity and precision without compromise.

470 Nitro Express Custom Build

High-end custom rifles tailored to specific preferences for weight, balance, and aesthetics.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	470 Nitro Express	416 Rigby	500 Nitro Express
MSRP	$12,000+	$2,500+	$14,000+
Capacity	2	3–5	2
Weight	10–12 lbs	9–10 lbs	12–13 lbs
Optics-Ready	Rarely	Yes	Rarely
Trigger Type	Double-set	Single-stage	Double-set
Notable Pro	Excellent dangerous game stopper	Flatter trajectory	Greater energy transfer
Notable Con	High recoil and expense	Less stopping power	Even heavier recoil

Best Use Cases

Big-game hunting in Africa
Stopping rifle for guides
Safari rifle collection
Legacy firearm builds
Serious dangerous game defense

FAQs

What is a 470 Nitro Express used for?

It is designed for hunting dangerous game like Cape buffalo and elephant, especially in Africa.

Can I use 470 Nitro Express in a bolt-action rifle?

Although rare, some bolt-action rifles are chambered in .470 NE; most are double rifles.

How does the 470 Nitro Express compare to the 500 Nitro?

The 500 Nitro Express delivers more energy, but the 470 NE balances recoil and penetration well.

470 NITRO EXPRESS for Sale