ACCURACY IS KING !!!!!!!!!
I don't mean in the sense that the heavy rifle long range guys shoot, or BenchRest.
I think a solid rest is the BEST way to learn the basics.
Trigger squeeze, sight alignment & windage, breathing, etc.
If I measured groups of 4 to 6 inches at 25yds with a Handgun, I'd never have hit a running jackrabbit with my DAD'S old COLT OFFICIAL POLICE or a SAA.
The old WEATHERBY ACCURACY GUARANTEE of 3 shot's in an 1 1/2" is fine by me for a HUNTING RIFLE. Developing accurate loads is half the fun.
I can get the same out of all my COWBOY Pistol caliber LEVER RIFLES at 50yds.
And I expect 2" out of my RIFLE Caliber LEVER Guns at 100yds with either style of PEEP sight. But I just enjoy being at the Range Shooting just about anything. And yes I still shoot off hand when my back will take it. Growing up we practiced shooting from every position with or without a make shift rest. With my arthritis, busted back and losing my eyesight I'm just happy to hit paper and not break the target frame.
But when all is said & done, and the last round hits the target.
ACCURACY IS WHAT YOU NEED IT TO BE.
An Eastern DEER HUNTER in a tree stand needs 3" or less at 50yds.
An ALASKAN SHEEP HUNTER needs less than 3" at 350yds