perhaps i am just being picky.... I have hunted for over 40 years, served in the military, and never once have I stuck the barrel of my rifle in the ground and leaned on the butt of the stock.... just sayin.
If you are looking at photo 1, his rifle is on a sling, barrel tip is 2 feet above the ground. (Uncropped photo is in article).
Those rifles are on slings, the barrels are not touching the ground. It’s a common sight to see with modern police and soldiers. Makes one wonder actually.