Was there a 'need' for the 600NE? Technically speaking one could answer this easily as no since the 577 was more than ample as a 'stopper' and, according to some, would penetrate better -- a function of the bullet design rather than anything else. But that still does not answer the 'why' of the 600 nor, for that matter, the 700 NE or H&H.

There is a long-standing observation in American handgunning/Western lore which may answer this question. Legend has it (and repeated in a recent biography of retired Texas Ranger) that a lady walked up to a Ranger some years ago and asked him what he was doing with that large and obviously heavy sidearm. He replied it was a Colt 1911 '45.' She asked, "why do you carry a 45?" His answer may answer the inquiry as to why a 600:

"Because they don't make a 50 or I'd be packin' one of those."

Sure the 577 was 'adequate' but a 600 is more 'adequate.'

Ironically 'they' do make a 50 on the 1911 platform now, but therein also lies a tale.

The 600 has been 'one upped' by the 700. While I have never had the chance to try one (as I suspect few of us have) it is an obviously large and expensive item and its utility has been questioned by many far more astute than this writer. On the other hand, I own and shot a Guncrafter Industries 50 GI, a superbly built and very, very practical upgrade of the basic 1911 platform. The builder went to a larger bullet, designed to deliver a bigger punch with managable recoil and functining for real world usage. Given a variety of loads, it is suitable for target use, personal defense, and police/security purposes. (It is also one of the finest-built and functioning 1911s you can buy.)

I suspect that mythical Texas Ranger would now be packing the 50. But how many 700s find their way into use? I assume most spend their time gracing the insides of a gun vault.

Dave