I have many younger hunting friends, who, sadly, not only do not support the NRA, but actively agitate against it. The liberal media has successfully vilified the NRA, and the NRA has done nothing to counter that message. The result being many younger gun owners "hating" the NRA.
Their reasons are vague, which shows they haven't really thought through the subject. And, when asked if they don't support the NRA, what gun rights organization do they support, they proudly say "none." The liberal media has further triumphed, again. The eyes of anti-2A people light up with smug delight when they see how these gun owners are screwing their own and their childrens' futures.
These foolish young gun owners think that "being good gun owners" is all that is necessary to ensure their future gun rights, but they are sadly mistaken. It is not good manners while being at the range, and it is not not-committing crimes with their guns that makes politicians and the general public vote for gun rights. These, of course, are necessary, but, by themselves, insufficient. It additionally requires lobbyist with access, good national and state PR, and well-placed campaign donations to protect future gun rights. Anything less is showing up to a gun fight with a pair of pom-poms.
The NRA losing popular support of the next generation of gun owners, without another organization filling that void (and that doesn't seem to be happening) will be the death knell of gun rights for everyone. NRA needs to step up their game in this regard. Gun owners who care about the future of 2A rights also need to contribute. Unfortunately, I don't see the former happening because the NRA leadership has ossified and has not adapted to the new political landscape. I have my doubts that the latter will make up the loss.
I am glad I am old and don't have children.
JMHO