As a firearms expert with a deep understanding of the history and specifications of various guns, I can provide you with an in-depth explanation of what caliber an elephant gun might be. The term "elephant gun" is not a specific model or caliber but rather a colloquial term used to describe a class of large caliber rifles historically used for hunting big game, particularly elephants and other large African game. These firearms are characterized by their immense power and size, capable of stopping a charging elephant in its tracks.

One of the most renowned calibers associated with elephant guns is the **Holland & Holland (H&H) .700 Nitro Express**. This cartridge is a real powerhouse, firing a massive 1,000-grain bullet at an impressive velocity of 2,000 feet per second (fps). The sheer size and power of this round make it one of the most potent available, suitable for the most dangerous game. The .700 Nitro Express is a double rifle cartridge, which means it has two barrels, often used in pairs for quick follow-up shots when hunting.

When comparing the .700 Nitro Express to a more common caliber such as the .270 Winchester, the difference is stark. The .270 Winchester is a popular hunting caliber known for its accuracy and moderate power, suitable for a wide range of game. However, it pales in comparison to the .700 Nitro Express in terms of raw stopping power. The business end of a .700 Nitro Express double rifle is a sight to behold, with its large bore and heavy construction designed to withstand the immense forces generated when firing.

Elephant guns are not just about stopping power, though. They are also about reliability and safety. In the field, especially when facing large and potentially aggressive game, a hunter needs a rifle that will function reliably under harsh conditions and not fail at a critical moment. The design of elephant guns, with their robust actions and strong construction, is intended to provide that reliability.

Furthermore, the recoil from an elephant gun is significant, and this is an aspect that must be considered. While the power is necessary to take down large game, it also means that the shooter must be prepared to handle the kick from the rifle. This is where the design and weight of the gun play a crucial role, as they help to manage and mitigate the recoil.

In terms of safety, elephant guns are typically equipped with strong, well-ventilated barrels and robust mechanisms to ensure that they can handle the pressures generated by the powerful cartridges without failure. The safety features of these guns are paramount, as a failure in the field could have dire consequences.

It's also worth noting that the use of elephant guns, and indeed the hunting of elephants, is a topic of significant ethical debate. Many countries have strict regulations or outright bans on the hunting of elephants and other endangered species. The use of firearms for hunting should always be done responsibly and in accordance with local laws and regulations.

In summary, the caliber of an elephant gun, exemplified by the .700 Nitro Express, is characterized by its immense power, designed to take down the largest and most dangerous game. These rifles are not just about stopping power but also about reliability, safety, and ethical considerations in their use.

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Try the Holland and Holland (H&H) .700 Nitro Express cartridge. This beast fires a 1,000-grain bullet at a velocity of 2,000 feet per second (fps). Ouch! Pictured below is the business end of a .700 Nitro Express double rifle (on left) compared to a .270 Winchester caliber double rifle (on right).Jan 4, 2015read more >>