The 404 Jeffery (10.75x73) was introduced in England by W.J. Jeffery in 1909. With case length of 2.87-inches and base diameter of .544-inch it is essentially the largest case that can be crammed into a standard-length action. Original ballistics, using a .423-inch 400-grain bullet at 2125 fps, were intended to replicate 450/400 performance in a bolt action. The case capacity allows for significantly greater velocity; modern loads usually propel a 400-grain bullet at 2300 fps, placing the 404 Jeffery very close to the 416 Rigby, but with slightly less recoil and no need for a magnum-size action. Though not as famous as the 416 Rigby the 404 Jeffery was far more prolific, manufactured by numerous makers and adopted by several African game departments. The 404 Jeffery has seen a considerable resurgence today with ammunition readily available. As originally loaded the 404 Jeffery was considered adequate; with today's loads and modern bullets it's a fine choice for the largest game.
