YouTube gun expert Paul Harrell reveals his own death in a video: "If you're watching me, I'm dead"

In a posthumous video, YouTube firearms expert Paul Harrell revealed his death from pancreatic cancer at the age of 58.

The manager of the late U.S. Army and Marine Corps veteran, who was renowned for his gun reviews, firearms instruction videos, and 2nd Amendment advocacy, posted a heartbreaking update on his YouTube channel Tuesday.

Harrell was recorded on a log in the woods with a crutch beside him in a six-minute clip on Dec. 20, 2023.

"In the video titled "I'm Dead," Harrell stated, "If you're watching me, I'm dead.""

I had previously shared with you that I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and that it was caught early, leading us to believe we would have a long journey ahead. However, I now realize that the diagnosis was not as early as I had initially thought.

Harrell revealed that he had broken his hip and used a crutch in his videos, which his fans had previously seen.

"Harrell shared that although he broke his hip, it wasn't due to an accident. Instead, it was a result of cancer spreading to his bones, causing the bones to crumble and resulting in a hip fracture and fall."

"My time is drawing short," he added.

Harrell thanked his fans for supporting him through Patreon and requested that they continue to do so for a while, as he hoped his brother and other members of his crew would take over and create content for the channel.

""My primary objective in doing all of this was to provide useful information, but if not useful, at least interesting information," he stated."

"He hoped that while observing him, viewers had gained understanding and made changes that benefited them. He also hoped that the reviews they had conducted had saved viewers money and prevented them from purchasing items that were not suitable for them. If these outcomes occurred, then they had achieved their objective."

"Harrell apologized to his fans, stating that he had hoped to continue in the same format for another 10-15 years. Even after being diagnosed, he had hoped they would have a few more years together. However, it has only been a few more months, and he feels like he has let everyone down."

"He became emotional as he said, "I guess the final line is that I'm really glad to have had the opportunity to do all of the stuff we've done. I hope it's been helpful and I appreciate your watching, commenting, and participating. I have few regrets in what we've done here.""

"Overall, I believe we've been successful. I hope you concur. As usual, please refrain from attempting this at home. Thank you for tuning in."

Roy E. Harrell, Jr. confirmed the death of the content creator after Harrell concluded his message in the video.

"He wished for me to preserve his legacy through this platform," Roy stated. "He will continue to inspire us all."

Nelson introduced himself to Harrell's viewers who may not know him, stating that he had worked with the gun expert since the channel was small.

""Paul has been a kind and generous friend to me, and he has positively influenced my life through his campfire stories and other actions. I am grateful for having him in my life," Nelson said."

""We will continue Paul's legacy by uploading videos on this channel and educating people, while you can also contribute by sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm for firearms in the outdoors," he stated."

"By being curious and constantly seeking to learn new things, like Paul did."

Harrell's fans expressed gratitude in the comments section for educating viewers about gun safety and advocating for gun owners' rights after the clip was posted.

"Paul is not just a gun enthusiast and educator; he is the ultimate Gun Educator. His contributions will be remembered for many years, and his teachings will continue to live on."

"You were the original YouTube Gun guy, and your content will be deeply missed," another added. "Thank you for your amazing content!"

"Paul was the Rogers of the gun world," one commenter stated. "RIP Paul."

Harrell's stoic demeanor as he announced his death in the video was met with admiration by other viewers.

"I have never witnessed such composure and expertise in managing one's own impending death, several months prior to it occurring. Rest in peace, Paul," a fan remarked.

Another viewer remarked that Paul's final lesson was a masterclass in gracefully and dignifiedly passing away.

"A true embodiment of masculinity," one admirer stated. "Not a macho alpha male trying to compensate for insecurity through brute strength. Instead, a stoic, seasoned, intelligent, self-aware individual who exudes respect and courage."