I can’t get a solid opinion on this. For 5 chords , low frets, like 1/3 or 3/5 I see it said to use index ring, as you need to learn to have your pinky free. But I see lots of people using their pinky on the 5th, and having the alignment of 2 fingers inside the middle fret. I humbly request the wisdom of the room. 
I can get a fret between my index and middle fingers, so reach is good, and I can get my ring finger to come down straight and at the fret wire. My index lies kind of on its side a tiny bit, like you’d have it if you are playing a barre chord but frets the lower note just fine. I want to practice it the proper way and avoid injury. Thoughts?
Are you referring to power chords with root notes between frets 1 and 5, say, and root note on either 6th or 5th string?
If yes, are you aski g about 2-string power chords or 3-string power chords?
If the power chord grips require no additional embellishment in a specific song you couls use index and little finger if it feels good. But you want to have it as an alternative, not your only choice.
Fir 2-strings, use index and ring fingers.
For 3-string, ideally use index plus ring and little finger together.
Does that help?
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2 finger. No octave. like root on the E1, 5th on the A3. I know that if you play that 133 the second 3 is pinky. I mean just 2 notes. On the lower, wider frets. If you had do play 1/3 to 3/5, and back to 1/3 are you using your pinky for the 5ths or your ring?
Index and ring 99% of the time.
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Your expertise is greatly appreciated man. Thank you.
As an addition to @Richard_close2u 's expert advice, there is also the option, at times, of using the index and middle finger for the Root and 5.
(Yes, the ones next to each other).
Its a hard stretch intially, and you may only use it in certain situations, but there alot of opportunities for all sorts of embellishments. It can be particularly helpful for a further reach for the pinky when playing the 6>b7, as it really opens up your hand.
It may seem impossible at first; but with some stretching over a month or so, it becomes much easier. I tend to use it quite often now, as I play alot of Blues.
Cheers, Shane
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If you can make that stretch between frets 1 & 3 you’ve being doing some effective finger workouts Shane!
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