Sharpe was one of the co-developers of the famed .357 Magnum cartridge. He was an expert in ballistics and espoused high-velocity loads. The Rifle in America is considered to be essential reference work for any rifle shooter with a modicum of interest in the field. Sharpe served as an officer with the U.S. Army Ordnance Corp during World War II. Sharpe was also a frequent contributor to The American Rifleman.