Whether you loved his content or simply respected his influence, Paul Harrell was undeniably a significant figure in the YouTube firearms community. Paul passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a channel that became a go-to resource for countless gun owners and self-defense enthusiasts. His educational approach, combined with his calm demeanor and methodical explanations, earned him a loyal following over the years.
A Legacy of Knowledge and Practicality
Paul Harrell’s YouTube career focused on delivering practical advice and insightful firearms reviews, with a style that stood out for its straightforwardness. His videos often tested firearms and ammunition in ways that he believed would help viewers understand real-world applications, even if some methods—like shooting through objects to simulate a human body AKA Meat Targets—sparked debate.
What set Paul apart was his commitment to delivering content with a focus on safety, responsible ownership, and helping others make informed decisions. Whether viewers agreed with his methods or not, many appreciated the effort he put into every video, and his work was often aimed at helping gun owners save money and avoid mistakes in purchasing or use.
A Humble Farewell
In his final message, recorded shortly before his passing, Paul shared his declining health with his audience. Initially optimistic after being diagnosed, he explained that his cancer had spread faster than expected, leading to a more rapid decline. With characteristic humility, he expressed regret for not being able to continue his work for as long as he had hoped, apologizing to his audience for what he felt was letting them down.
Paul’s hope was that his brother and team could continue his work on the channel, keeping his unique style alive for those who still sought practical firearms education. He also encouraged his supporters to be wary of pirated content and to stay true to the ethos of his channel.
Touching on Controversy
While Paul was well-regarded, he wasn’t without his critics. Some questioned the practicality of his methods or felt that his tests didn’t always reflect realistic scenarios. He also faced notable disagreements with others in the firearms YouTube community, such as a public dispute with James Yeager. Paul handled these moments with the same calm professionalism that marked his content, choosing to address the criticism without engaging in inflammatory exchanges.
Though not all of his content resonated with every viewer, Paul’s focus on education and responsible gun ownership was clear. His willingness to tackle difficult topics and break down complex issues earned him respect, even from those who may have disagreed with certain aspects of his approach.
Honoring Paul’s Memory
In the wake of his passing, Paul’s editor and collaborator, Brad Nelson, shared the news with the firearms community. Brad spoke about Paul’s generosity and impact, both as a teacher and a friend. The channel will continue to honor Paul’s memory by producing content in the spirit of his practical, informative style.
Paul’s work lives on through those who continue to educate others about firearms and the outdoors, inspiring curiosity and a drive for knowledge. While his presence will be missed, the impact he made on the YouTube firearms community remains.
As Paul himself often said: “Don’t try this at home, and thanks for watching.”
Rest in peace, Paul Harrell. Your influence continues to shape the community you dedicated yourself to.
Paul was cool. I wasn’t a rabid fan who waited for every one of his videos to come out, but he was fun to watch. He never seemed arrogant or like a know-it-all, he just gave you his outlook. A solid member of the community who will be missed.