Adam,
Great topic. My biggest hope is to simply promote shooting sports and responsible hunting - get the youngsters into it. As they grow, they'll figure out what kind of guns they really enjoy. I agree with many of the posts that fine old guns are something most will grow into with age. (I got my first double gun just a few years ago in '07). I got my oldest daughter into skeet shooting at 15 with a 20 gauge auto - it's pretty, relatively light and easy to handle, and low felt recoil. She loves the gun and shooting with it. So, that's a victory.
As a kid, I never shot anything but a pump and single shot due to the price - double guns were for rich people. I DO think pumps are still a favorite in America and will remain so - most Americans I know love pump guns (who doesn't live a Model 12). There's just something "American" about them, even when they're imports.
I live in Japan and am very sad to see the lack of shooters and hunters here. I don't know one younger than 60. Even all of the Japanese military with whom I work are surprised to learn that I shoot over here and have several guns.
I think shooting and hunting in America is safe for a while, but urbanization will continue to reduce it. Our part is to encourage our kids, grandkids and neighbors to get involved with it by taking them out and teaching and encouraging them to enjoy a great past time and part of our heritage. That's what I do here with my kids and will do when I return home to Texas.
