Affiliate Disclosure: AmmoCave.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Lucky Gunner, Optics Planet, Brownells, Cabelas, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Rainier Arms, Palmetto State Armory, Sportsman’s Guide, Ammo.com, Ammo Man, Primary Arms, MidWayUsa, Amazon, eBay, etс. Clicking a link helps keep AmmoCave.com free, at no extra cost to you!

Authors: Each article is verified by AmmoCave's expert team. Professional hunters, firearm trainers, gunsmiths, and gun experts write the articles. AmmoCave Team independently researches, tests, reviews, and uses recommendations from our community of gun owners. We may earn commissions from shopping links.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect any agency's official policy or position. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions about Best 470 Nitro Express Ammo in the comments and join the discussions. Let's share 💬 our ammo & gun experiences together!

Best 470 Nitro Express Ammo

What is 470 Nitro Express Ammo? 💈

It is a large calibre centerfire rifle cartridge designed for big game hunting. It was first introduced by the British gun maker John Rigby & Co. in 1907 and was designed specifically for use in Africa, India, and other big game hunting destinations.

Best 470 Nitro Express Ammo

Features 📡

📎 1. Power: This ammo is known for its incredible stopping power. It is capable of taking down any animal on the African continent with a single shot.

📎 2. Accuracy: It is a very accurate round. It has a flat trajectory and is capable of producing tight groupings, making it a favourite among big game hunters.

📎 3. Recoil: Since the ammo is a big-bore cartridge, it has a high level of recoil. However, most hunters who choose this round are well aware of the recoil and prefer it for its power and accuracy.

📎 4. Bullet Weight: The 470 Nitro Express typically fires bullets that weigh between 500 and 600 grains. The heavier bullet helps to ensure that the animal is taken down with a single shot.

📎 5. Cartridge Length: It typically has a cartridge length of 3.5 inches. This is longer than many other cartridges, which allows for a greater powder charge and thus greater power.

Our Top Pick
470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Full Metal Jacket Brass Cased – Norma
Norma's 470 Nitro Express is a heavyweight cartridge that makes it the perfect choice for African big game hunting. This round delivers superior penetration, making it ideal for hunters who are looking to take down their prey with one shot. The 500-grain bullet weight and brass casing make this an extremely reliable ammunition you can depend on for years to come.
Buy Now On OpticsPlanet
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Maintenance 🔋

📌 Clean the ammo after use.

  • It is recommended to clean the ammo as soon as possible after the shooting, as leaving it uncleaned can lead to corrosion and other damage.
  • Use a clean cloth or brush to remove any residue or debris, and follow up with a light coat of oil to protect against rust.

📌 It is also important to store your Ammo in a dry and secure location.  Our study found that exposure to moisture can cause damage to the ammo, and leaving it in a place where it can be easily damaged or stolen can put your safety at risk.

📌 Regular inspections should also be conducted to ensure that your ammo is in good condition. Check for signs of corrosion or damage, such as rust or dented casings. Any damaged ammo should be disposed of properly to prevent accidents.

📌 Lastly, it is important to always follow manufacturer recommendations and best practices for using and maintaining your ammo. This includes using the correct ammunition for your firearm, storing it properly, and following safety guidelines when handling it.

Our Selection 11 Best 💣 .470 Nitro Express Ammo – Editor’s Choice

1# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain DGX Bonded – Hornady

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain DGX Bonded - Hornady

20 Rounds

The 470 Nitro Express from Hornady is a top-of-the-line choice for hunting big game. The 500 grain DGX bonded projectile is engineered to transfer massive amounts of energy upon impact, providing you with the power and penetration you need to take down even the largest targets. With a muzzle velocity of 2150 fps and 5132 ft/lbs of energy, this round is sure to make a powerful impact. The reloadable brass casings are boxer-primed and new-production, while the powders are carefully matched to each load to ensure optimum performance. This ammunition is part of Hornady’s Dangerous Game Series and features Superformance propellant technology for added power and precision.

Video review

Pros:
  • Extremely powerful
  • Perfect for hunting big game
  • Features Superformance propellant technology for added power and precision
Cons:
  • Not always available
  • Expensive compared to other rounds

 

2# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain DGS Solid – Hornady

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain DGS Solid - Hornady

20 Rounds

The Hornady 470 Nitro Express 500 Grain DGX Bonded bullets are the perfect choice for hunting dangerous, thick-skinned game. With a muzzle velocity of 2150 fps and a stunning 5132 ft/lbs of energy, these cartridges pack a serious punch. The GDS bullet is designed to penetrate thick hide and tunnel as far into the target as possible, ensuring maximum knockdown power. With premium components and meticulous care taken in manufacturing, this is the ammunition you can trust to get the job done right.

Video review

Pros:
  • Excellent for hunting dangerous game
  • Penetrates thick hide and tissue
  • Creates massive amounts of energy upon impact
Cons:
  • May be too powerful for some users
  • Can be expensive compared to other calibers

 

3# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Swift A-Frame – Federal Premium

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain Swift A-Frame - Federal Premium

20 Rounds

When you need the perfect round of ammunition for a successful day of shooting, you need Federal Premium Cape-Shok .470 Nitro Express 500 grain Swift A-Frame Centerfire Rifle Ammunition. This top quality ammo is perfect for shooters of all shapes and sizes, thanks to its bonded front core and progressively tapered jacket. This design provides controlled expansion and energy release, making it the perfect choice for hunting or target practice. Additionally, the A-Frame design stops expansion and maintains a longer shank for deep penetration and high-weight retention. And with reliable primers and propellants, you can be sure that every shot will be as accurate as the last. So don’t settle for anything less than the best – choose Federal Premium Cape-Shok .470 Nitro Express 500 grain Swift A-Frame Centerfire Rifle Ammunition.

Pros:
  • Controlled expansion and energy release
  • Perfect for shooters of all shapes and sizes
  • Bonded front core
  • Progressively tapered jacket
  • Long shank for deep penetration
  • Accurate primers and propellants
Cons:
  • May not be the best choice for novice shooters
  • The proprietary design may limit the availability of compatible accessories
  • Some users report inconsistent accuracy

 

4# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Banded Solid Flat Nose – Barnes

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain Banded Solid Flat Nose - Barnes

20 Rounds

The Federal Nitro Express 500gr Swift A-Frame Centerfire Rifle Ammo is designed for maximum stopping power and deep penetration. The A-Frame design stops expansion and maintains a longer shank for deep penetration and high weight retention. This Federal Ammo is made using reliable primers and propellants that ensure the best reliability possible. The bonded front core and progressively tapered jacket of this piece of rifle ammo from Federal Premium controls expansion and release of energy for a more efficient shot. With a muzzle velocity of 2150 ft/s and muzzle energy of 5132 ft-lbs, this round is sure to get the job done right.

Video review

Pros:
  • Massive stopping power
  • Deep penetration
  • Bonded front core
  • Progressively tapered jacket
  • Reliable primers and propellants
Cons:
  • May produce excessive recoil
  • Could potentially damage the target
  • Limited use for hunting purposes

 

5# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain RNSN Brass – Norma

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain RNSN Brass - Norma

20 Rounds

The 470 Nitro Express is a legendary big game cartridge that has been around for over a century. This massive 500-grain round is capable of taking down the biggest and toughest game animals out there, making it a favourite among hunters worldwide. Although ammunition for the 470 NE has been scarce in recent years, Federal has stepped up to the plate and begun producing high-quality ammo for this iconic round, ensuring that it will be around for many years to come. If you’re looking for a big game cartridge that packs a serious punch, the 470 Nitro Express is a perfect choice.

Video review

Pros:
  • Powerful big game cartridge
  • Can take down the biggest and toughest game animals
  • Has been around for over a century
  • Federal is producing high-quality ammo for this round
Cons:
  • Can be difficult to find ammunition for
  • Can be expensive compared to other rounds

 

6# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Trophy Bonded Bear Claw – Federal Premium

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain Trophy Bonded Bear Claw - Federal Premium

20 Rounds

When you’re aiming for the trophy of a lifetime, there’s no room for error. That’s why you need the Trophy Bonded Bear Claw from Federal Premium. Jack Carter designed this legendary bullet, and Federal Premium has perfected it. The Trophy Bonded Bear Claw is a reliable, deadly accurate bullet that is ideal for large, heavy games. From Africa to Alaska, this bullet can handle anything you throw at it. The bonded jacket and core retain more than 95 per cent of the bullet’s weight for deep penetration, ensuring that your shot is on target every time. With a muzzle velocity of 2150 ft/s, this bullet is sure to make a big impact. The grooved shank also improves accuracy across all gun platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a first-time shooter, you can trust the Trophy Bonded Bear Claw to get the job done right.

Video review

Pros:
  • Reliable
  • Deadly accurate
  • Ideal for large, heavy game
  • Penetrates deep
  • Grooved shank improves accuracy
Cons:
  • May be overkill for some game
  • Expensive
  • Can be difficult to find

 

7# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Full Metal Jacket Brass Cased – Norma

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain Full Metal Jacket Brass Cased - Norma

20 Rounds

The 470 Nitro Express from Norma is a powerful cartridge that is perfect for big game hunting in Africa. With its reputation for superior penetration, this cartridge is a great choice for hunters who want to make sure they can take down their target with one shot. The brass casing and 500-grain bullet weight make this a high-quality round that will provide you with years of dependable performance. Order your box of 470 NE ammo today and be prepared for your next African hunting adventure.

Pros:
  • Heavy-duty and dependable construction
  • Superior penetration for big game hunting
  • Great for African hunts
Cons:
  • The brass casing may not hold up over time
  • 500-grain bullet weight may cause recoil problems

 

8# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Woodleigh Hydro Solid – Federal Premium

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain Woodleigh Hydro Solid - Federal Premium

20 Rounds

The Federal Premium 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Woodleigh Hydro Solid is a perfect choice for the hunter who demands the utmost in power and performance. This tough little round is designed to penetrate thick hide and heavy bone with ease, thanks to its solid copper-alloy construction. The concave bullet nose and flared pressure ring work together to create a massive wound channel, while the cavitation bubble ensures that no game animal is out of your reach. The polymer nose cap provides reliable feeding, and the grooved shank offers match-grade accuracy. When you need a dependable round that will get the job done right, reach for the Federal Premium 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Woodleigh Hydro Solid.

Pros:
  • Massive wound channel
  • Penetrates thick hide and heavy bone
  • Concave bullet nose and flared pressure ring
  • Cavitation bubble
  • Polymer nose cap
  • Grooved shank
Cons:
  • Expensive
  • May not be available in some areas
  • Can be difficult to find

 

9# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Trophy Bonded Sledgehammer Solid- Federal Premium

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain Trophy Bonded Sledgehammer Solid- Federal Premium

20 Rounds

Looking for a bullet that packs a serious punch? Look no further than the470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Trophy Bonded Sledgehammer Solid from Federal Premium. This bad boy is designed to deliver maximum penetration, thanks to its thick brass jacket and bonded core. The flat nose design minimizes deflection for a straight, deep wound cavity, while the grooved shank enhances accuracy across all gun platforms. But that’s not all – this ammo also features Federal Premium’s nickel-plated case, specially formulated powder, and Gold Medal primer to ensure peak performance when it matters most. So whether you’re looking to take down a big game or simply want the reassurance of knowing you’re packing some serious firepower, the 470 Nitro Express is a perfect choice.

Pros:
  • Superior penetration
  • The flat nose design minimizes deflection
  • Grooved shank improves accuracy
  • The nickel-plated case for superior performance
  • Gold Medal primer
Cons:
  • May not be legal in all states
  • Could cause extensive damage to the target
  • Expensive

 

10#  470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain TSX FB Rifle Cartridges – Barnes

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain TSX FB Rifle Cartridges - Barnes

20 Rounds

Whether you’re hunting in the tropics or a hot climate, the Barnes Safari Centerfire Rifle Cartridges w/ TSX Bullet is perfect for long-range target practice. With a clean-burning powder and 500-grain TSX Bullet core, these cartridges offer deep penetration and velocities low enough to be crucial in some situations. Developed by Joseph Lang in England for dangerous game hunting in 1907, the .470 Nitro Express is a purpose-built cartridge for close quarters and excels at the job. With a flat base hollow point bullet, this cartridge is perfect for life or death circumstances. Don’t be caught without the right ammunition, pick up your Barnes Safari Centerfire Rifle Cartridges w/ TSX Bullet today.

Video review

Pros:
  • The Best 470 Nitro Express Ammo on the market
  • 500 Grain TSX FB Rifle Cartridges
  • Purpose-built cartridge for close quarters and excels at the job
  • Flat base hollow point bullet
Cons:
  • Only available in certain stores
  • Price

 

11# 470 Nitro Express – 500 Grain Nickle Plated Cased – Nosler

470 Nitro Express - 500 Grain Nickle Plated Cased - Nosler

20 Rounds

Looking for a versatile and high-performing round for your next African safari? Look no further than the Nosler 470 Nitro Express. This 500-grain nickel-plated cased powerhouse is designed for both large and dangerous game, delivering consistent expansion and penetration. Loaded with either Nosler’s Solid or Partition bullet, the 470 NitroExpress provides an identical point of impact whether you’re using the solid or partition option. Plus, each round undergoes rigorous quality control checks before it leaves the factory, ensuring reliable performance in even the most challenging situations. So when you’re heading out into the wild, make sure you’re carrying the Nosler 470 Nitro Express. It could mean the difference between a trophy kill and a dangerous encounter.

Pros:
  • Consistent expansion and penetration
  • Bullet is designed for large and dangerous game
  • Rigorous quality control checks
  • Powder charges are meticulously weighed
  • High-performance powder and bullet combinations
Cons:
  • May not be as accurate as other rounds
  • Can be expensive
  • May not be available in all stores

 

Reloading 📙

🧷 1. Gather Equipment – You will need a reloading press, resizing die, primer pocket cleaning tool, powder scale, powder trickler, calipers, bullet seater, and shell holder. It’s important to purchase high-quality equipment to ensure safe and reliable reloading.

🧷 2. Clean and Inspect Cases – Before reloading, make sure to clean and inspect each case for any signs of damage or defects. Discard any cases that are damaged or in poor condition.

🧷 3. Size and Deprime Cases – Use the resizing die to size the case to ensure proper fit in the firearm chamber. Deprime the spent primer from the case using a decapping pin.

🧷 4. Clean Primer Pockets – Use a primer pocket cleaning tool to remove any residue or debris from the primer pocket to ensure proper primer seating.

🧷 5. Weigh Powder Charges – Use a powder scale to weigh the correct amount of powder for the desired load. Use a powder trickier to add or remove small amounts of powder until the desired weight is achieved.

🧷 6. Charge Cases with Powder – Carefully pour the powder charge into each case. Use caution to avoid spilling any excess powder.

🧷 7. Seat the Bullet – Use a bullet seater to seat the bullet at the proper depth in the case. Measure the overall length with callipers to ensure proper seating.

🧷 8. Crimp the Case – Use a crimp die to crimp the case around the bullet to ensure a tight fit and prevent bullet movement during firing.

Safety Precautions:

  • ✅ Always wear proper eye and ear protection;
  • ✅ Follow all manufacturer instructions for equipment use;
  • ✅ Use only approved powders and primers for the desired load;
  • ✅ Never exceed recommended powder charges;
  • ✅ Double-check all measurements and steps to ensure proper ammunition assembly;
  • ✅ Store powder and primers in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat or flame.

Based on our own experience we can say that reloading 470 Nitro Express Ammo can be a gratifying experience when done safely and with the right equipment. Follow these steps and safety precautions to produce high-quality ammunition for your firearms.

FAQ 💻

What Caliber Is A 470 Nitro Express?
The 470 Nitro Express is a large calibre rifle round that was developed in the early 1900s. It is one of the most powerful rifle cartridges available, and it is still used today for big-game hunting. It has a diameter of .470 inches (11.9 mm) and an overall length of 3.25 inches (82.6 mm). It can be chambered in both bolt-action and double-barreled rifles.
What Types Of Bullets Can Be Used With The 470 Nitro Express?

Three main types of bullets can be used with the 470 Nitro Express: full metal jacket (FMJ), hollow point (HP), and soft point (SP).

📍 FMJ bullets are typically used for target shooting, as they have a tendency to pass through targets without causing much damage.

📍 HP bullets are designed to expand on impact, making them ideal for hunting games.

📍 SP bullets fall somewhere in between FMJ and HP in terms of expansion; they will expand upon impact, but not as much as an HP bullet.

Choosing the right type of bullet will depend on your intended use. If you plan on using it for hunting, then hollow point or soft point bullets would be the best choice. If you just want to shoot targets, then full metal jacket bullets will be fine.

What Is The Difference Between The 470 Nitro Express And The 500 Nitro Express?

🟨 The main difference is the size of the bullet. The 470 uses a .470 calibre bullet, while the 500 uses a .500 calibre bullet. Other than that, they are very similar calibres of ammunition.

🟨 The 470 Nitro Express is slightly less powerful than the 500 Nitro Express, but it is also smaller and lighter, making it easier to carry around. The 500 Nitro Express has more stopping power and is better suited for hunting large game, but it is also more expensive and heavier.

Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and what you plan on using the gun for. If you are looking for a powerful hunting rifle, then the 500 Nitro Express would be the better choice. If you want a lighter rifle that is still capable of taking down the game, then the 470 Nitro Express would be a better option.

How Does The 470 Nitro Express Compare To Other Rounds?

🟥 It is one of the most powerful rifle cartridges available, but it’s not the only option. There are several other cartridges that offer similar or even higher levels of power, including the .458 Winchester Magnum and the .460 Weatherby Magnum. However, the 470 Nitro Express has a few advantages over these other rounds.

🟥 It has a slightly higher bullet weight than either the .458 Winchester Magnum or the .460 Weatherby Magnum. This gives it slightly better penetration and stopping power.

🟥It is generally more accurate than either the .458 Winchester Magnum or the .460 Weatherby Magnum.

If you’re looking for the most powerful rifle cartridge available, the 470 Nitro Express is a great choice. However, if you’re more concerned with accuracy or barrel life, you may want to consider one of its competitors

What Are The Drawbacks Of Shooting A 470 Nitro Express?
It is a large calibre cartridge, and it can be very expensive to shoot. It is also quite loud, and the recoil can be substantial. It is not a good choice for shooters who are looking for an inexpensive or low-recoil cartridge.

Conclusion 🔔

The 470 Nitro Express is a powerful rifle cartridge that is great for hunting large game. It is more expensive and louder than other cartridges, but it is also more accurate and has a longer barrel life. If you’re looking for the most powerful rifle cartridge available, it is a great choice.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing this ammo.

  • ➡️ First, make sure you choose ammunition that is designed for your rifle.
  • ➡️ Second, consider the recoil of the cartridge when selecting ammo.
  • ➡️ And finally, be sure to select a bullet that is appropriate for the game you are hunting.

With these factors in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect 470 Nitro Express ammunition for your needs.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
9 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Towacaba
Towacaba
9 months ago

Thank you for the useful post. This ammo seems to be quite aggressive and powerful. I am thinking where people use them and with what guns

Zack Buck
Editor
Reply to  Towacaba
9 months ago

🏹 The 470 Nitro Express is typically used for hunting big game such as elephants, rhinoceros, buffalo, and hippopotamus. The cartridge delivers a large amount of energy and stopping power, making it ideal for hunting dangerous games.

🟡 As for the gun that shoots the 470 Nitro Express, there are a few manufacturers that produce rifles chambered for this cartridge. These include Holland & Holland, John Rigby & Co., Heym, and Merkel. Some of the most popular rifles chambered in 470 Nitro Express include the Holland & Holland Royal Double Rifle, the John Rigby Rising Bite Double Rifle, and the Heym Express Magnum Double Rifle.

Wysav
Wysav
9 months ago

In my opinion, the effectiveness and superiority of heavier and larger bullets for a wide range of purposes are evident in the old Nitro Express cartridges. These cartridges serve as proof that if someone desires an insurance policy, such bullets are the way to go.

BestOne
BestOne
9 months ago

The cartridge is widely used for hunting the African big five, including elephants, in many African countries. It boasts great power and effectiveness in taking down large game. Despite its strength, the recoil is manageable, making it a suitable choice for many hunters. Additionally, its capability for long-range shots is excellent.

Jacob
Jacob
9 months ago

Hello. How many fps is a 470 Nitro Express?

Zack Buck
Editor
Reply to  Jacob
9 months ago

Generally, the velocity of the 470 Nitro Express varies depending on the load and bullet weight used.

🟣 However, in general, a 470 Nitro Express cartridge can achieve muzzle velocities ranging anywhere from 2,100 to 2,300 fps with a 500-grain bullet. The 500-grain bullet is the standard weight for the 470 Nitro Express, which is perfect for taking down large games such as elephants and Cape buffalo.

📌 It is important to note that the velocity of the 470 Nitro Express can differ based on the manufacturer and type of gun used to shoot this cartridge. Therefore, it is always advisable to check the manufacturer’s specifications before firing any rounds of ammunition.

CrazyMan
CrazyMan
9 months ago

The idea of shooting an animal as large as an elephant is difficult for me to comprehend, and I personally wouldn’t feel comfortable taking down a rhinoceros – it would feel like destroying a sacred place. As a result, I would limit myself to hunting animals such as lions, leopards, jaguars, cape buffalos, crocodiles, and brown/grizzly/polar bears. For these sizes of animals and considering the availability of ammunition, the 470 Nitro cartridge is suitable. It’s always enjoyable to discuss these topics.

PoliseRandy
PoliseRandy
9 months ago

Hello. Thank you for so good information. How powerful is the 470 Nitro Express?

Zack Buck
Editor
Reply to  PoliseRandy
9 months ago

It is an incredibly powerful cartridge designed for big game hunting at close range. It was created in the early 20th century for big game hunters in Africa who needed a reliable firearm to take down large, dangerous animals such as elephants

🔴 The 470 Nitro Express fires bullets that range in weight from 400 to 500 grains, with muzzle velocities between 2,150 and 2,300 feet per second. These bullets produce muzzle energies ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 foot-pounds, which makes them ideal for taking down some of the largest and most dangerous animals on the planet with just one shot.

🔴 The cartridge is designed to be used with double-barrel rifles, which have two barrels side by side or stacked vertically. These rifles provide the hunter with two quick shots in case the first shot misses or fails to take down the animal. The 470 Nitro Express is also known for its loud report, which is effective in stopping charging animals in their tracks.

🔴 In terms of recoil, the 470 Nitro Express produces a considerable amount of kick. Hunters must be experienced and have a sturdy frame to handle the rifle and cartridge effectively. It is also important to note that this cartridge is not suitable for long-range shots, as its trajectory drops considerably beyond 100 yards.