War wasn't just a matter of killing. It was also sport for the gentry who had the where-with-all. They attended the battle, regaled in their finest, mounted high above or off to the side (for the most part) and moved the enlisted swine about like chess pieces in a field.
Think of what is now being taken into the field and woods, just to hunt game. Fancy grained wood and engraving, when an old Carcano will do just as well.
Pride of ownership is the key.
Been there; done that.
Think morko.
rc