That's how it's done

Yes, that's exactly how it's done, sadly.

You did a great job illustrating it with minimal words and just a single picture.

Is that a proper way to carry a rifle? I was taught to keep aware of where the wrong end points and adjust if need be.

No, he should not be resting the tip of the barrel against the guy's head. But the point of this picture is still valid.

I just found it and added Madcow to it.