Good points Paul. One other thing - is it the shooter or the gun's performance I see?

First my disclaimer... I could be wrong, but I seriously doubt by much if at all. My opinion is based almost entirely on years of casual observations on this forum.

I've noticed group after group after group posted on these forums by recreational PCP shooters that frankly would rival some of the best I've seen by Olympic champion shooters. That's always made me a bit of a skeptic since I know the level of dedication invested by the world's top shooters to achieve that kind of consistent performance. After reading replies to a recent post about bench rest bags, I've noticed quite a few not only rest the front but also the butt of the rifle when shooting. The gun is literally locked in position to the point that some fairly poor technique would be compensated for while posting otherwise impressive results. So is the shooter actually demonstrating his/her good technique, or simply showing us the ultimate potential of the gun under ideal (yet somewhat unrealistic) conditions when posting shot group pics? I would not be surprised if many, maybe even most PCP shooters use the bench too much in the quest to achieve some coveted groups that would gain them entry to the exclusive, imaginary world of the top shots of the world. Ironically all without developing good technique. I've also noticed very few great groups seem to ever be achieved in the company of other shooters (witnesses) - but are usually posted by a lone shooter (with a few notable exceptions of course). Coincidence?

Tim
VPilot