I think it boils down to supply and demand. The supply of quality shortbeds is high but the supply is low. There seems to be a much higher supply of quality longbed trucks, and they are cheaper than the short ones. So they are getting bought up and cut up. I am just glad to see them still on the road. I guess I could be all wrong. Maybe it's the old blonde and brunette debate. They are both nice but some people just like blondes!
