Ed Harris - A Lifelong Voice In Reloading Wisdom
When you talk about reloading, the name Ed Harris often comes up, and for very good reason. Folks have been poring over his articles for a good many years, actually, keeping them close by as a dependable source of information. His insights have guided countless enthusiasts through the sometimes tricky business of making their own ammunition, providing a steady hand and a clear voice in a pursuit that really calls for precision and care.
He's a person whose writings have become a kind of constant companion for those who enjoy working with firearms and crafting their own loads. Whether it's a specific powder recommendation or a method for cleaning a bore, his practical advice has a way of sticking with you. It’s almost like having a seasoned mentor right there, sharing wisdom that’s been put to the test over and over again.
This enduring presence in the community speaks volumes about the trust people place in what he shares. We'll be taking a closer look at some of the key ideas and practical tips that have made Ed Harris such a respected figure, the sort of person whose contributions truly stand the test of time, you know.
Table of Contents
- Ed Harris - A Respected Figure in the Firearms Community
- What Makes Ed Harris's Advice So Dependable?
- How Did Ed Harris's "Ed's Red" Become Such a Staple?
- Has Ed Harris Shared Thoughts on Different Bullet Types?
- The Practical Lessons from Ed Harris
- Getting to Grips with Load Data Thanks to Ed Harris
- Beyond the Bench - The Wider Reach of Ed Harris
- What Can We Take Away From Ed Harris's Testing Methods?
Ed Harris - A Respected Figure in the Firearms Community
Ed Harris, from what people say and what he has written, seems to be a person who has spent a very long time working with firearms and ammunition. His reputation has grown steadily over the years, built on a foundation of careful testing and sharing what he learns. He's not just someone who talks about these things; he's someone who actually puts in the effort at the bench, finding out what works and what doesn't. This hands-on approach is, you know, a big part of why so many people look to his writings for guidance.
While specific personal details about Ed Harris aren't available in the shared notes, we can gather a sense of his influence and the kind of work he does. It's pretty clear he's someone who values practical experience and passing on helpful tips to others who share his interests. His contributions often involve breaking down complex ideas into simple, workable steps, which is really helpful for anyone getting into or continuing with reloading. So, too it's almost like he's built a legacy of helpfulness.
Personal Details and Bio Data
Based on the available information, here's a general sense of Ed Harris's contributions and background:
| Known For | Extensive writings on reloading, firearms, and bore cleaning, particularly "Ed's Red" bore cleaner. |
| Years of Influence | Decades of contributions to the firearms community. |
| Approach | Practical, experience-based, safety-conscious, and focused on sharing reliable data and methods. |
| Areas of Shared Knowledge | Ammunition reloading (various calibers, powders, bullets), firearm maintenance, historical firearms, and testing methodologies. |
What Makes Ed Harris's Advice So Dependable?
People often ask why Ed Harris's advice holds such weight, and the answer, in some respects, comes down to his consistent and thorough approach. He doesn't just offer suggestions; he presents information that feels like it comes from a place of deep, personal testing. For example, when he mentions that 700X powder tends to burn a bit quicker in an '06, needing less powder for the same speed, that's not just a guess. That's a specific observation, something he’s seen firsthand, you know, and then shared with others. This level of detail, combined with the fact that he's been doing this for a very long time, builds a lot of confidence.
His willingness to share specific findings, even down to the slight differences in newer powder batches, shows a commitment to accuracy. He noted, for instance, that current Alliant products might have a lower nitroglycerin content than older versions, which means they behave a little differently. This kind of attention to the small but important details is what makes his guidance so valuable. It helps people avoid potential issues and get better results, which is, you know, really what everyone wants when they're working with these things.
The fact that people keep his articles as a reference for decades speaks volumes. It's not just a passing read; it’s something you go back to when you need to be sure. His insights are like a reliable compass for those trying to make sense of different loads or cleaning routines. It's pretty clear that his words have helped many folks feel more secure and capable in their own work, which is, well, just a great thing.
How Did Ed Harris's "Ed's Red" Become Such a Staple?
The story of "Ed's Red" bore cleaner is, in a way, a perfect example of Ed Harris's practical genius. For three decades, people have been mixing up this concoction, and it has become a go-to for many. The idea that someone could create a cleaning solution at home that works so well and has stood the test of time for so long is, you know, quite something. It speaks to a deep understanding of what's needed to keep firearms in good shape, and a willingness to share that knowledge widely.
When someone mentions they mixed their first batch of "Ed's Red" thirty years ago and are still using it, that's a powerful endorsement. It's not just a fad; it's a solution that has proven its worth over many years of actual use. This kind of longevity for a homemade product is quite rare, and it really highlights the effectiveness and simplicity of the formula. It’s almost like a testament to the idea that sometimes the best solutions are the ones you can put together yourself, with a little guidance from someone like Ed Harris.
The fact that this bore cleaner is often referred to simply as "ER" in conversations, or that people talk about "trusting home mix," shows how deeply it has become ingrained in the community. It’s more than just a cleaning agent; it's a symbol of the practical, self-reliant spirit that Ed Harris seems to embody. His contribution with "Ed's Red" has, in some respects, empowered countless individuals to take better care of their equipment, which is a pretty cool thing, if you ask me.
Has Ed Harris Shared Thoughts on Different Bullet Types?
When it comes to different kinds of bullets, Ed Harris has indeed offered some valuable thoughts, particularly about plated bullets. He mentioned that he hadn't really worked with plated bullets in rifles, but he had some clear advice for their use in revolvers. His experience suggested that these bullets needed lighter loads, much like you would use for lead bullets, rather than treating them like jacketed ones. This distinction is, you know, pretty important for safety and for getting the right performance.
This kind of specific advice shows that Ed Harris pays close attention to the nuances of different components. It’s not just about the powder; it’s about how the bullet itself behaves under pressure and what kind of load it can handle. His insights help people avoid common mistakes and ensure they are matching the right load to the right bullet type. It’s a very practical piece of wisdom that could save someone a lot of trouble, really.
Furthermore, his work with cast bullets also stands out. After some good results with cast bullets in the .38 S&W, Ed Harris even sent some .45 caliber cast bullets for pressure testing with Alliant Bullseye powder. This willingness to go through formal testing, to really put things to the test, shows a commitment to providing solid, verifiable information. It's pretty clear that he doesn't just rely on guesswork; he wants to know for sure, which is, you know, a very responsible way to approach these things.
The Practical Lessons from Ed Harris
The notes we have from Ed Harris are full of practical lessons, little bits of wisdom that can make a real difference for anyone involved with firearms. For example, his advice on starting with 11 grains of #2400 powder in an SKS and gradually increasing the load until you get reliable function, without going over 15 grains, is a classic example of safe and sensible practice. This isn't just a random number; it’s a measured approach that puts safety first while still aiming for good results. It’s the kind of advice that helps someone learn by doing, but with a safety net, you know.
His observations on powder changes over time also offer a valuable lesson. When he noted that current Alliant powder had a lower nitroglycerin content than older versions, it highlighted the fact that things can change, even with established products. This means that what worked perfectly years ago might need a slight adjustment today. It encourages a mindset of staying informed and being ready to adapt, rather than just sticking to old recipes without question. That, is that, a really important point for anyone who takes reloading seriously.
Another very practical piece of guidance comes from his sharing of a technique for using charge cups, something he learned from Frank Marshall. The idea of having powder in a coffee cup or rice bowl and then using the charge cup from there is a simple but effective method. It’s these kinds of small, everyday tips that make his writings so accessible and useful. They show that he’s not just talking about theory; he’s talking about how things are done on a regular basis, which is pretty helpful.
Getting to Grips with Load Data Thanks to Ed Harris
When it comes to load data, Ed Harris provides some very specific examples that help people understand the finer points of reloading. The mention of 5.0 grains in the 7.62x29, or trying the old 2.7 grains of Bullseye, gives concrete starting points. These aren't just abstract numbers; they are tested figures that people can use as a basis for their own work. It’s like he’s giving you a little head start, you know, so you’re not just guessing.
His guidance on matching factory velocity with current Alliant products and Remington 148 HBWC flush seated bullets is another example of his precision. This kind of information helps reloaders achieve specific performance goals, whether for competition or just for consistent practice. It shows that he understands the desire to replicate commercial results, and he provides the pathway to do so safely. That, is that, a very useful piece of knowledge for many people.
The details he shared about different pistols, like the Colt 1903, CZ27, Beretta M1935, and Walther PP, and how they functioned reliably with CIP, also add to his credibility. It demonstrates a broad experience with a variety of firearms, not just one type. This wide range of testing and observation means that his advice often has a broader applicability, which is, you know, really good for the community at large. It's pretty clear he's spent a lot of time with different firearms, getting a feel for how they perform.
Beyond the Bench - The Wider Reach of Ed Harris
Ed Harris's influence stretches beyond just the technical specifics of reloading; it also touches on the spirit of the firearms community. The phrase "in home mix we trust" that appeared in one of the notes, signed "73 de KE4SKY," hints at a broader culture of self-reliance and shared knowledge that Ed Harris has certainly helped to cultivate. It’s about people trusting each other’s experiences and working together, which is, you know, a very strong aspect of this hobby.
His willingness to share posts from different years, like October 2007, March 2007, January 2013, and September 2016, shows a consistent presence over a long period. This isn't someone who just pops up now and then; he’s been a steady contributor for years. This consistent sharing of updated observations and tested methods helps to keep the community informed and safe. It’s almost like he’s been a continuous source of reliable updates, which is, you know, very valuable.
The fact that he notes his experience with specific historical firearms, even mentioning what he hasn't worked with, like the 1934 Mauser, while listing others he has tested, speaks to his thoroughness. It shows he knows the limits of his own experience, which is a mark of true expertise. This honesty and clear statement of what he knows and doesn't know builds even more trust among those who read his articles. It's a very straightforward and helpful way to present information, really.
What Can We Take Away From Ed Harris's Testing Methods?
When we look at how Ed Harris approaches testing, there are some very clear takeaways that anyone could benefit from. His method often involves careful observation and a willingness to try different combinations. For example, after testing cast bullets in the .38 S&W, he moved on to sending .45 caliber cast bullets for pressure testing with Alliant Bullseye powder. This step-by-step, methodical approach, you know, is something that everyone can learn from.
He also emphasizes safety, as seen in his advice for the SKS loads: start low and increase gradually, and definitely don't go over a certain limit. This isn't just about getting the best performance; it's about making sure that every step is taken with care and consideration for the equipment and the person using it. It’s a very responsible way to share information, and it really puts the well-being of the reloader first, which is, you know, absolutely essential.
Moreover, his attention to the subtle differences in powders over time, such as the lower nitroglycerin content in newer Alliant products, shows a keen eye for detail. This kind of careful tracking of changes in components is a hallmark of good testing. It means that his advice is not just based on historical data but is constantly being updated with current observations. It's pretty clear that he believes in staying current with his knowledge, which is a very good habit to have, really.
Ed Harris, through his many years of sharing insights, has truly become a foundational voice for those who appreciate the craft of reloading and firearm maintenance. From his widely used "Ed's Red" bore cleaner to his detailed load data for various powders and bullets, his contributions consistently offer practical, tested guidance. His careful approach to experimentation, his attention to the evolving nature of components, and his commitment to safety have made his articles a go-to resource for countless individuals. He embodies a spirit of thoroughness and generosity in sharing knowledge, which is a pretty wonderful thing for the community, you know.
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