That is right, I forgot about those archers. Been a while since I saw those episodes.

Now, just a quick clarification: I would love a more modern (or future) setting. I could easily get behind the idea of guns existing, in fact I would love it, that was just an errant thought I was exploring.
And I think given more time the equalist tech WILL surpass the benders. I see eventually the benders themselves using the tech to augment their own powers. 

Only thing is (this will be a spoiler but you said you didn't mind.) at the end of season two of Korra the portals are opened and left so humans and spirits can freely pass between the worlds. Since this new age hasn't been shown I would LOVE to RP in a futuristic bender setting with regular and frequent interaction with spirits.