The 450/400 3 inch is automaticlly a NITRO rifle because the 3 inch 450/400 was never offered in black powder form. In fact that 3 inch version's brass is formed so it will not chamber in the older 3 1/4 inch rifle because the shoulder is farther forward on the 3 inch cartridge.

The biggest draw back with the rifle being discussed here is not the hammers but the choice of cartridge for hunting elephant. Though it will kill elephant it is considered a minimum caliber for that purpose. For just about any other of the dangerous game other than rhino and elephant is is one of the best, especially the cats. Hammers are not a problem.