Are attitudes towards guns changing???

[skoro]

Sure seems like it to me.

30 years ago, a concealed carry permit was simply forbidden for about 99% of the public. Nowadays, most states have "shall issue" statutes.

Funny thing...

I recall those opposed predicting lots of irresponsible gunslinging and blood running in the streets at an unprecedented rate.

Somehow that never happened.

 

[NGIB]

Sure they're changing - look at gun sales and permit applications in the last several years.

Here in GA we've made great strides in 2A rights since 2008 and there is still a long way to go. I use 2008 as the baseline as that is the year the "public gathering" law finally was removed. It was an old Jim Crow law that was so nebulous it could be used against anyone at anytime.

Every time I read about a case in the "non-free" states, I can't imagine living in a place where I have no rights. I am protected by the castle doctrine and no right to retreat, like in a shall issue state (yes I carry), and can drop by the LGS on the way home and buy (and walk out with) a new gun if I so choose. Sadly, some states will likely never allow their citizens this level of freedom and it's a fight that likely can't be won at the ballot box.

I think more folks now see guns as tools rather than evil objects; however, the media and the government continue to press their distorted views.

Last point. Marching into the mall with an AK or AR slung across your back will not convince the average person that guns are good. Just because you can doesn't mean you should...

 

[RustyShackelford]

State and local actions....

Id say in general the attitude/sales/atmosphere is about the same.
A recent media report said violent crime was at its lowest level(s) in nearly 40 years, which is good. My state also leads the US in armed citizen/CCW licenses.
A recent push to allow private citizens to carry guns in declared emergencies(federal or state) fell apart & did not get to the Gov's desk this term but it may get further next year.
The state LE & sheriff's assoc fought hard against it.

My state's 2A groups & legal networks are still fighting for regular "open carry" and allowing fewer restrictions too but it's a uphill fight.
I could see it passing in the next few years but all the elements need to be in place & gun owners/NRA members need to vote for it.
Allowing the lobby groups for anti gun or anti-CCW/gun ownership police-sheriff groups to sweep away any chances is wrong. They are mobilized & organized.
The NRA/ILA & 2A groups need to be ready too.

 

[hso]

Thank you, I hope some day that people are so comfortable that this doesn't even get any interest.

 

[WestKentucky]

Things are certainly changing. Cans are common and ARs are too. The revolver hasn't had a huge surge in a while but they are still around. I do wish we would see more metal frames in the auto world but that's just a preference rather than a pro/con. A lot of hype has been proven to be hype and there are more people ok with mainstreaming concealed carry. Things do appear to be better at the moment than in many years.