Dale wrote

The second way was to pick a reference point over the nose. Put
the nose slightly to one side of that point then roll and pull
keeping the nose the same distance from the reference point.

This is what Kershner has to say about the second method.

"Another method of doing a barrel roll is to pick a reference on the
horizon, turn the airplane 45° to the reference point, and proceed to
make a wide roll around this real point. One disadvantage of this
method for the newcomer is that it depends on the pilot's own
judgment of how large the orbit around the point should be. For an
introduction to the maneuver, the first method is usually better, but
you may prefer the second and work out your own techniques of
instructing it."

It should be noted that by using the 45 degree angle to the reference
point, one gets the same maneuver if done properly.

Bob Moore