I have both wood and metal riser bows. I also use ILF these days. I will admit I shoot my Bear Mag riser better than the wood riser. But right now it’s chilly outside so my Vintage Works 62kodiak reproduction gets the call. I also have my new all Cocobolo Wes Wallace LB to shoot.
What I see is newbies buying metal riser bows because they are a good enough starter bow for indoor and backyard learning. They are easy to get and reasonably priced. If the fade wears off they aren’t out big bucks.
As for the old bowyers, yes, some have passed away. A couple I know quit because of health issues. One man found out bow making didn’t pay the bills. I sure would like a Vintage Works 66 Kodiak, black ebony riser with carbon back and a burl wood grip.