.500 / .416 Nitro Express

Caliber Overview
The .500 and .416 Nitro Express calibers represent the pinnacle of big-game hunting ammunition, designed for taking down the largest and most dangerous animals like elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalo. Originating in the early 20th century, these cartridges were developed by British gunmakers such as Holland & Holland to meet the demands of African safaris, where stopping power and reliability were paramount. Today, .500 Nitro Express offers unmatched kinetic energy for extreme hunting scenarios, while .416 Nitro Express provides a slightly more manageable option without sacrificing performance. At AmmoSouth, we stock high-quality options from trusted brands like Hornady and Federal, ensuring hunters have access to ammunition that combines historical legacy with modern precision.
Key Specifications
The .416 Nitro Express features a bullet diameter of approximately 0.416 inches, with typical grain weights ranging from 400 to 450 grains, delivering muzzle velocities up to 2,400 feet per second and exceptional energy transfer. In contrast, the .500 Nitro Express has a larger bullet diameter of 0.510 inches and grain weights often exceeding 570 grains, resulting in velocities around 2,100 feet per second and recoil that can exceed 100 foot-pounds—making it one of the most powerful commercially available rounds. These calibers are compatible with specialized bolt-action rifles from manufacturers like Ruger and custom builds, requiring robust firearms to handle their pressure and recoil effectively. AmmoSouth offers a curated selection to match these specifications, ensuring compatibility and safety for serious hunters.
Applications
Primarily designed for big-game hunting in Africa and other wilderness areas, .500 and .416 Nitro Express ammunition excels in scenarios where deep penetration and immediate stopping power are essential. These calibers are not suited for self-defense, competition shooting, or tactical applications due to their size and recoil, but they shine in professional guided hunts and expeditions targeting thick-skinned animals. For enthusiasts, they provide a thrilling option for ethical, one-shot takedowns, emphasizing accuracy over long distances in challenging environments. At AmmoSouth, we recommend these for experienced marksmen prepared for the demands of dangerous game pursuits.
Ammunition Types
Available types for .500 and .416 Nitro Express include full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets for maximum penetration in tough hides, soft point rounds for controlled expansion and reliable energy dump, and premium bonded bullets that combine both attributes for ethical hunting. JHP (jacketed hollow point) variants are less common but offer enhanced terminal performance for vital organ disruption. Each type serves a specific purpose: FMJ for straight-line penetration in dense muscle, while soft points ensure humane kills by mushrooming on impact. Popular brands like Norma and Hornady provide these options, optimized for the calibers’ ballistic profiles at AmmoSouth.
Key Benefits
Compared to similar calibers like .375 H&H Magnum, .500 and .416 Nitro Express offer superior accuracy and stopping power for the largest game, with ballistic coefficients that maintain velocity and trajectory over extreme ranges. Their affordability at AmmoSouth makes them accessible despite premium pricing, providing versatility in various hunting conditions without compromising reliability. These rounds excel in adverse weather and thick cover, offering peace of mind through consistent performance and reduced risk of failure. Shop with us for the edge in quality and expert advice on selecting the best for your needs.
When you’re ready to equip yourself for the ultimate hunting challenge, explore AmmoSouth’s extensive selection of .500 and .416 Nitro Express ammunition today. As your trusted retailer, we guarantee top-tier products, fast shipping, and unbeatable customer service—shop now and elevate your hunting game!