I always use some method of keeping the stock firmly in the shoulder pocket. If I'm shooting with a sling, the sling pressure keeps it there. If I have a bipod or other front rest, I like to wedge my hand or a rear bag or something under the stock to keep it in my shoulder. If I'm shooting leaned up against a tree or something, I lean my weight forward a little to keep it in there. When I'm shooting unsupported, I have to use my muscles to pull it back into the pocket. This is the least ideal for precision, but definitely the most dynamic if you're in a "shoot and scoot" type of situation, or if you have to get a quick shot off. When doing this, I use a "handshake-firm" pressure... not the bone crusher handshake you would give your daughter's boyfriend, but not a little-old-lady handshake either... basically enough muscle to keep the rifle from moving or falling out of your shoulder, but not so much to cause muscle shake.
taliv said:
so "correct" has changed a lot over the past 100 years. I happen to think what is commonly taught in carbine classes today is better, not just different.
so yes, i shoot squared up, shortened stock, stock inboard instead of out in the shoulder pocket and pulled into the chest.
if i'm just shooting for groups, no i wouldn't shoot that way. i'd use a traditional high power stance. but in high power, you can only single load and you have to wait for a target puller to pull and mark your target.
Which position is "correct" or "better" is a matter of tactics, and the situation dictates the tactics. The method you describe is better for one specific situation (close quarter dynamic shooting) and one specific type of rifle (low recoiling intermediate power rifles). If you try to put the stock "inboard" on your pectoral muscle with a high powered rifle, it will not be pleasant. When using a .30 battle rifle or something for close quarters, you can still use a far-forward grip with your support hand; but it is best to use your actual shoulder pocket, and to take a slightly less squared stance.
Also, the traditional "bladed" stance is not just for punching paper or high power matches where you are single loading... it is the position you would use any time you need to get the utmost precision out of the standing position. It is what a sniper would use when standing back in the shadows of a room shooting down through a window, or what a hunter would use if he had to take a long-range shot but could not get in a more stable position due to obstructions. It can be REALLY stable when augmented with a tree, corner, door frame, or other solid support.
I've long said that a real Rifleman ought to know both the dynamic and the precision techniques, and should be able to switch seamlessly between them as the situation dictates.