It’s nice to shoot from a bench to check out the rifle and ammo. Then get off that bench and shoot that rifle standing, sitting, kneeling, left handed, prone, standing on your head. Try whatever position you could have to make a shot from in the field. I have a Marlin bolt action and I like to just load 3. I think getting to a position is 75% of getting a shot at all. I’m with you on the “I believe that practice with average ammo is the path to better shooting.” I think an inexpensive 22 rifle or pistol and some reasonably good (but inexpensive) ammo is the perfect way to take the stress out of practicing.
With a 22 it is hard to tell yourself to make every shot count, LOL
