Nitro Express

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. The .700 NE is one of the most powerful non-military rifle cartridges.

List of Nitro Express calibers

 * .242 Rimless Nitro Express
 * .26 Rimless Nitro Express
 * .318 Rimless Nitro Express
 * .360 Nitro Express
 * .360 No. 2 Nitro Express
 * .369 Nitro Express
 * .375 Flanged Nitro Express
 * .400/375 Belted Nitro Express
 * .400 Jeffery Nitro Express
 * .450 Nitro Express
 * .450 No. 2 Nitro Express
 * .450/400 Nitro Express
 * .470 Nitro Express
 * .475 Nitro Express
 * .476 Nitro Express
 * .500/450 Nitro Express
 * .500 Nitro Express
 * .510 Nitro Express
 * .577 Nitro Express
 * .600 Nitro Express
 * .700 Nitro Express