In the case of damascus, virtually all is installed on old guns. That means that we are wise to protect the wood with low recoil loads and the action with low presure loads. One can let the old race horse gallop without the full bore effort needed to race. Yes, we could likely get more function from our damascus guns at a very slight increase in risk (the old race horse still knows how to run). The question is why would we? If you need racing effort, use a modern gun that you shoot well. If youare out for a pleasant gallop, shoot something you enjoy.