Good observation sjalter,
I too have noticed the changing of the times.
Upto 1980's it was very common to see gun racks on pick up trucks in the suburbs .
I believe the Columbine shootings changed everything coupled withthe Clinton years agressive democrat sponsored anti-gun bills/ campaigns of the 1990's are the primary cause the errosion of the gun culture.
(JUST SAY NO TO HILLARY IN 08')
The urbanization of America is another factor , as more farms and woods yield to the bull dozer so goes the rural culture.
Mayberry is gone forever folks , welcome to the New World Order .

America will never be the same. [:@]