I know currently Auto pistols are more common than las pistols, I doubt many would disagree with this. BUT, is that due to the reason for people buying pistols? People start up with juves armed with pistols, meaning that autopistols are a better option for them with their +2 and close range and no mod at distance. Later on in the campaign you already have autopistols from these graduates to hand out, meaning that the prevelance for autopistols over laspistols continues... I'm not saying there isn't a problem, but I would think that is the reason for it rather than people preferring their experienced ganger with a boltgun having an auto pistol rather than a las pistol as a back up. I'd rather a laspistol personally but if I have a auto pistol in the stash then jobs a good un, no need to buy another pistol.
Just saying, not really sure if I agree with nerf or not but I would think that's one strong factor for why they are more prevalent throughout a campaign, and I think that will always be the case with which ever pistol is deemed to be best buy for juves being the most common throughout.