Speaking of weapons handling. In World War 2 this was one of the preferred ways to carry the "U.S. Rifle, Caliber .30, M1". Going through old archival footage you will find thousands of images of GIs and Marines carrying their M1 Garand with a "suitcase" grip, holding the rifle by the stock balanced roughly in the middle with the dominant hand well in front of the trigger guard. This was a very comfortable method since it allowed the soldier to use his offhand to negotiate obstacles or carry something else while keeping his hand away from the trigger. It is also a very fast way to get the weapon into action. With just a little practice you can whip the rifle up to your shoulder, bringing your left hand up to grasp it, as you slide your dominant hand to the trigger. With the Garand I've found this technique to be every bit as quick as the modern "low ready" stance. Sadly, with modern Hollywood war movies, you will rarely see the "suitcase" grip used by actors and extras because modern tactical weapons advisors are teaching them to incorrectly use the "low ready" stance which you very rarely ever see in period photographs or film.