A Potent Oldie: .450-400 NE 3"

by
posted on October 8, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
ammo2015_fs.jpg

Using the recipe below, the .450-400 NE 3" is capable of taking all game animals with the exception of elephant; a homogeneous or full-metal-jacket projectile is preferable for that application. Additionally, the load virtually duplicates the velocities of the original cordite rounds, so point-of-impact shifts shouldn’t be a concern.

Loads_Hornady_DGX

Bullet: Hornady 400-gr. DGX
Propellant/Charge: Vihtavuori N165/86.5 grs.
Primer: Fed. 215
Case: Hornady
Case Trim-To Length: 2.980"
Cartridge Overall Length: 3.685"
Velocity @ 15’ (f.p.s.): 2108
Energy (ft.-lbs.): 3,947
Accuracy: 1.44"  
Uses: all game animals (except elephant)

Notes: Test rifle: 24"-barreled Ruger No. 1 topped with a 1.25-8X 32 mm Bushnell Elite 6500 riflescope; *for use in modern rifles with a 0.410" groove diameter; **firm roll crimp required; ***average of five consecutive, five-shot groups at 50 yds.

Latest

013 Rrvstr Trio End 01
013 Rrvstr Trio End 01

What Should Ruger’s Future Revolvers Look Like?

Ruger’s revolvers would benefit from a few updates if the company ever decides to bring them back into production.

Savage Arms Expands Model 334 Line with New Chamberings & Compact Models

Initially introduced in 2023, the Savage Model 334 bolt-action lineup has been an affordable, no-frills platform for hunters and shooters, and in 2026, Savage has expanded the line with new chamberings and compact models.

Gun of the Week: Marlin Firearms Model 1894 Trapper 10 mm

One of the latest Marlin lever-action rifles on the market is the Model 1894 Trapper, and the company now offers the platform in a 10 mm Auto chambering.

Scout Rifle World Shoot Recap

There’s lot to learn about the Scout Rifle, and we tested one at the inaugural Scout Rifle World Shoot.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 6, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Six-Hour Gun: Saving a Family Heirloom

Simple math would have told anyone it wasn't worth fixing a $150 revolver. But to one family, this simple, common revolver meant everything.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.