Wow. The changes in less than 30 years. When I was growing up, there was ALWAYS a rifle or two in the back window of the truck - of nearly every truck you saw.
Even here in Texas its a rare sight anymore unless you're out a good ways from the cities.
Oh, and my list.
I say, it depends, first, on which group you're in. These would be my top picks if I was just waving a magic wand to equip someone.
"shooter". Someone with at least some solid training or .mil experience.
DA sidearm. I'd never feel undergunned with a G17. Yes, I know, I'm a 1911 fanboi but when it boils down to reliability, ease of use, and capacity for combat I'd want the G17.
In a really ideal situation I'd have a can for said G17 as well.
AR-15/M4gery. Carbine to mid-length, not a varmint gun.
Scoped bolt gun in an everyday caliber ('06, .308 would be my top picks). Lightweight model of some kind.
.22lr rifle with a can if at all possible.
For the non shooter? (Like say a hunter or someone who shoots a little but has had no real "formal" training)
G17 or .357 wheel gun(s)
.22lr semi auto. 10/22 is a good choice, my only complaint is mine gets finicky when dirty and running cheap ammo.
.30-30 lever gun (Marlin 336 with scope)
Rem 870 pump gun. HD model with extra hunting barrel.