'^(*){3}' has the {3} on the outside of the (), so it is match (*} many times, each time saving a single *... you need to move them inside '^(*{3})' then you will be happier.
For key mode, your answer is correct and I am indeed happier. However, for test mode (when the substitution is run on $HAIR, the whole string is still wiped out!

In reply to Re: regex to substitute 3 stars at beginnning of string with none? by princepawn
in thread regex to substitute 3 stars at beginnning of string with none? by princepawn

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