Paul Harrell, a well-known firearms educator, YouTuber, and Second Amendment advocate, passed away in September 2024 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Harrell, 58, had garnered over 1 million subscribers on his channel, known for its practical, no-nonsense approach to firearm safety, gun reviews, and real-world shooting tests. His calm demeanor, methodical style, and commitment to responsible gun ownership made him a respected figure among pro-gun enthusiasts and firearms novices alike.
A Final Goodbye
In a pre-recorded video titled “I’m Dead,” Harrell, sitting on a felled tree, shared the news of his passing with his audience. He explained that although his cancer was caught early, it spread more rapidly than expected. In his final message, he expressed gratitude for the years of support and hoped that his work had helped viewers make informed decisions about firearm purchases and usage.
“My goal in doing all of this was primarily to put out useful information—or at least interesting information,” Harrell said in the video. His trademark approach of combining educational content with straightforward gun testing—often with a unique “meat target” method to simulate real-world scenarios—helped him stand out in the crowded YouTube firearms community.
A Legacy of Knowledge
Harrell’s Youtube channel became a go-to resource for gun owners and self-defense enthusiasts seeking practical advice. He was known for his focus on safety, responsible gun ownership, and helping viewers avoid costly mistakes. While some debated the accuracy of his testing methods, many appreciated his dedication to providing well-thought-out content aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of gun owners.
In his farewell video, Harrell also addressed ongoing issues, including the piracy of his content and previous character attacks from critics. He reminded viewers not to fall for misinformation and to stay loyal to the ethos of his channel.
A GunTube legend passed away today. Paul Harrell will live on forever for his contributions to our nation and to the 2A community. Rest in peace Paul. You will be missed but never forgotten. pic.twitter.com/gXhY0Sjeka
— Military Arms (@MAC_Arms) September 4, 2024
Honored to have been able to help Paul Harrell get his 1 Million sub plaque before he passes
A legend amongst men. pic.twitter.com/Wv1WhomaHC
— Brandon Herrera (@TheAKGuy) February 14, 2024
Continuing the Mission
Harrell’s brother, Roy, and his video editor, Brad Nelson, shared plans to continue his work on the channel, honoring his legacy by producing content that maintains the quality and style Harrell was known for. Nelson spoke fondly of Harrell, describing him as generous and kind, with a deep love for teaching and sharing knowledge.
“As Paul always said, ‘Don’t try this at home, and thanks for watching,’” Nelson added, vowing to keep the channel active and educational.
A Lasting Impact
Paul Harrell’s influence on the firearms community cannot be understated. His practical advice and humble, approachable style resonated with many. While Harrell’s passing leaves a void in the YouTube firearms space, his teachings will continue to inspire responsible gun ownership and firearm education for years to come.
Rest in peace, Paul Harrell. Your lessons, humor, and integrity will live on in the community you so deeply influenced ~ Fredy Riehl, AmmoLand News, Editor in Chief.
Thank You Mr Riehl, for remembering Paul. In some of the final released videos featuring Paul, he looked as though he might be getting better. I understand now, that those videos may not have been released in chronological order. When I saw the “I’m Dead” title on yesterday’s video, I at first thought it was Paul exercising his humour. As I watched, the realization that he had actually passed was like a punch to the gut.
RIP Paul Harrell. You did much for us and you will be missed, but certainly not forgotten.
RIP Paul, missing you already.
RIP Paul
Thank You Paul.
I hear this with deep sadness… his video style grew on me and I miss him already.. Best wishes to Paul and to his family. Be well, friend.
I was sad to see my fellow Marine /Guardsman had passed away. I used his videos not only in my career as a Police Officer but also used them alot in my hunting activities to stretch my money for equipment and firearm purchases. I hope his Brother Roy keeps the channel going. Semper fi Marine ,RIP.
Paul Harrell’s passing is a real loss. I always appreciated his practical “Is it enough of a difference to make a difference?” approach to guns, ammo, and tactics.
The most ” unique ” of all the guntubers.
The dry humor and matter of factness made him one of a kind.
I will miss you .
RIP Mr. Harrell
There are certainly more entertaining GunTubers, and others with equal or greater experience and skill, but Paul’s videos are the only ones that ever significantly affected my purchasing decisions, particularly when it comes to ammo. While I had thoroughly tested the ammo I chose to carry in my EDC, I rarely practiced with it. Paul helped me to see that whatever advantage I would get out of carrying premium defense ammo would likely be lost due to the point of impact shift between that and the ammo I regularly practiced with. His meat target with its “high-tech fleece bullet stop”… Read more »
RIP Paul. May your days be sunny and warm, your targets fresh, and your magazines forever full. You will be missed – but not forgotten.
MAY HE HAVE UNLIMITED AMMO AND POP TARTS…FOREVER
RIP Good Sir
I loved watching Paul. Sad to hear he has moved on to a better place. Sometimes the great Lord takes people away from us too soon, but great Lord has bigger plans. One day we all will be gone from Earth too, time here is short, make it count. RIP Paul.