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Quick Look

The .577 Nitro Express originated in the early 20th century to bring down dangerous game in Africa and India. Designed as a premium big-bore cartridge, it delivers immense stopping power for elephant and buffalo hunting. Though niche, it remains respected among dangerous game hunters and collectors of classic British double rifles.

Why It's a Top Choice

Exceptional stopping power for dangerous game
Proven track record in African safari hunting
Used in premium double rifles with exquisite craftsmanship
Favored by collectors for its historical significance
High ballistic energy at close ranges

Key Variants

Holland & Holland 577 Nitro Express

Iconic among professional hunters, H&H rifles are finely regulated and highly collectible.

Westley Richards 577 Nitro Express

A bespoke option for those seeking handcrafted performance in dangerous environments.

Rigby 577 Nitro Express

Renowned for both aesthetic beauty and field durability among high-end hunters.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	577 Nitro Express	470 Nitro Express	500 Nitro Express
MSRP	$30,000+ (rifles)	$10,000–25,000	$10,000–20,000
Capacity	2 rounds	2 rounds	2 rounds
Weight	11–14 lbs	10–12 lbs	10–13 lbs
Optics Ready	Rarely	Rarely	Rarely
Trigger Type	Double triggers	Double triggers	Double triggers
Notable Pro	Maximum stopping power	Widely available ammunition	Good balance of power/control
Notable Con	Very high recoil	Still hard-recoiling	Heavy and expensive

Best Use Cases

Dangerous game hunting (African big five)
Safari guide backup rifle
Collecting vintage British firearms
Ballistics study or enthusiast shooting

FAQs

What is the effective range of a 577 Nitro Express?

Effective range is approximately 100 yards; this cartridge is optimized for close encounters with large game.

Can I use 577 Nitro Express for elephant hunting?

Yes, the 577 Nitro Express was specifically designed for elephant and large dangerous game hunting scenarios.

How does 577 Nitro Express recoil compare to other big bores?

It produces extreme recoil, significantly more than a 375 H&H or 470 Nitro; proper training is advised.

577 NITRO EXPRESS for Sale