Shooting from rest technique?

Some time ago I decided on an approach of what I call chasing my rested groups.  In other words I would periodically shoot a couple of 10 round groups from a rest and while keeping the ammunition (loads and bullets) the same I would attempt to shoot as well off hand.  In the beginning the difference in groups was dramatic but in time my abilities improved and the groups began to converge.  I'm finding now that my off hand groups are sometimes better.  After reading Askins book I now realize that there are different techniques in shooting from a rest.  Mine certainly needs improvement.  So, without getting into machine type rests, what methods or techniques in shooting from a rest work best in getting the tightest possible groups?  Incidentally, my not so good technique is to rest the gun barrel or frame under the barrel in the case of a 1911 on a carpeted rest with my wrists resting on a bench.  I have to crouch down while sitting on a chair to get into this position.

Cup your free hand user the gun/shooting hand and rest that on a bag.

I use a Caldwell front rest under the dust cover of the 1911 and sand filled shot bags under the butt.  The key is, as in all shooting, CONSISTENCY.  Adjust the bags so that, in my case the dot, is centered in the black without having to force it to where you want it.  You want the gun to be completely neutral when sighted.  If you have to force it to the side or up/down you will be inconsistent.  After every shot you may have to gently fluff the bag by squeezing it to get it back to where you want it.  Do this with as little disturbance to where the gun is as possible.  If you have to remove the gun to change mags make sure to put it back in the same spot.  Also make sure you are in a comfortable position.  Everything needs to be the same including arm position.  What I found to effect groups the most is grip.  Good firm grip keeping close attention to the same amount of pressure of each finger every time.  I use both hands and a firmer grip than I do than shooting off hand.  Last thing is rest.  Both for the eyes and the hands/arms.  If you shoot too many shots in a row you will fatigue and be inconsistent.

Thats what I have found to help at least.
Scott

I tried some of the suggestions above and I'm doing better now.  Thanks.