Quote - I was using Shift-Select and edge loop copiously. The model began as just a half with a symmetry modifier up until one side had to be alterted, so I collapsed the modifier. Problem with that is any loops now terminate at the half way point.

Not very familiar with the hard edge selection feature you are talking about. I use smoothing groups all the time but didn't realize you could select via smoothing groups.

Hold down alt, then add the next edge to the loop where it terminates, and then go back to shift selecting.  I think that's probably the only way for some models, where edge loops terminate often, or redirect in ways you don't really want.

Yeah, you can select via smoothing groups, and there's a feature calle "Hard Edges" undert the Selection tab (left side of the ribbon).  Your smoothing groups need to be perfectly set in order for this to work as expected, but if you set SM groups often, then this might be handy for you, since you should know where your hard edges are at all times.

You can select only faces by smoothing group, in the same area of the Selection ribbon, in the Select dropdown.  There will be an option, if you're in face mode, to select by Material ID (which was always possible in the command panel rollout), and also By Smooth Group.  The "Hard Edges" option appears in that location when in Edge Mode.  It's like Selecting all your border edges of the smoothing groups.

______________________________________

My Store
My Free Models
My Video Tutorials
My CG Animations
Instagram: @luxxeon3d
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luxxeon