I don't think pictures of Mao etc are at all what is driving the current gun and ammo stockpiling or the massive upsurge in the NRA's membership rolls at all. And any really effective media manipulation that is occurring is due to the government and it's stooge's anti-constitutional propaganda, fear-mongering, and demonization of law abiding gun owners as terrorists and criminals.
You can ignore the fact that most of the country is very concerned at the course we have taken if you like but the fact is millions of individuals are currently making preparations to FIGHT to preserve their constitutional rights if that becomes necessary. That's why they are stockpiling ammo and joining the NRA.