Minecraft wiki entry for Player_versus_Player, associated text: Whilst in the middle of a multi-player PVP standing around and checking out the loot from the player you just killed is just being a burden on your group, having to protect you and in most cases they won't protect you, most likely getting you killed and losing the loot you just got and your original possessions. Although a bit of scenario analysis is also needed (i.e. take this advice with a pinch of salt). Just grab whatever loot there is and continue the fight (unless if you got great gear in your hotbar right away).