1: the rings were not seated in the bases properly for the first shots (most likely), 2: the rifle was "settling" back into the stock... probably after removal of the barreled actionfor cleaning (least likely), or 3: you failed to see that chipmunk jumping up and down on your barrel for those first shots.
#1... that was my very first thought. But like I said, I did check them very close and they were all the way into the bases, so it appeared. That is why I was kind of shocked at how it was
SPRAYING the powerbelts.
#2...I never considered that possibility, but I really made no adjustment to the stock to make it start grouping with the other loads. But that is something to keep in mind should it ever happen again.
#3... Is the one I suspect to. When he crossed that trail, my first thought was to put a .50 caliber bullet down range at him. He was not even armed. [&o]