Back in the days of the Accutrigger they went to 1.5lbs. Still need the pinch method at that weight. At 7 ozs you can truly free recoil but it sure is easier with 2 ozs.
Sure helps to have a flat 3" stock. Bags that are filled correctly and a solid bench. Most important of all is the bags need to be slick. If they're the least bit sticky the gun will recoil differently each time.
Once I get away from my slow twist point blank guns I switch to holding the rifle. An 8 twist tube will input enough torque into the gun I prefer add some control with a mild grip and cheek weld.
Never had the oppurtunity but I doubt I'd try free recoiling in a varmint scenario where speed and agility is of more importance.
Using a rest, unless I was shooting a lightweight rifle chambered in a dangerous game cartridge my left hand would never touch the forearm. Thats stictly the front bags job.
