A farmer, Zachary Hallock (Joel McCrea) & his son Joshua (Jimmy Hunt) try to establish new roots on their farm near a small western town victimized by outlaws. The merchants & ranchers form a vigilante group to oppose the constant threat to their families. They also try to recruit Hallock, but he refuses & instead secretly joins the outlaw band terrorizing the community. His son & new bride Sarah Jane Skaggs (Barbara Hale) don't understand why he has seemly decided to become an outlaw & has turned his back on everything & everyone most dear to him.