Scott, I respect you as a shooter, tuner, match director and stand up gentleman. My concern is safety not so much order of operation. A lot can happen between being on your feet, and being on your bucket, or the ground. Hell, I've seen people fall standing still. Not to mention the ravages of age on coordination and balance.
Also, I've done my share of springer shooting both break barrel and underlever. I've shot them off the knee and with sticks. I understand the extra step or two involved to keep your place.
The springer shooters I've had the pleasure to watch all seem to fall into prepping everthing up to taking the the shot, cocking, loading, closing the breach then back into position before releasing the sear.
As for falling sticks there's no rule against a lanyard between the handle and your wrist to keep them from falling forwards.
PeweeDaddy, I don't think we've met. I'm John. While I may not have the background in PB events you do, I've shot FT from my back yard to Europe. I've even ran into Scott a few times. I wouldn't be shooting if fun wasn't first thing. The next is safety. I am not soft about or give deference when the shooters and spectators safety come to question, full stop. As for following rules put in place to stroke ego's, I'm not so adherent.
I hope this clears up my earlier comment and settles any ruffled feathers.