Hi Dee,
No, I did not raise the muzzle prior to firing. In fact, just the opposite. The rounds were transported to the range in an ammo box, primer end up. They stayed in that position until loading. When loading the pistol, the barrel was pointed down not quite vertical, and then brought up horizontal and fired.
Pistol rounds were 38 spl, with Missouri Bullet 105 grain "Cowboy 16" Hi Tek, 1.46" OAL.