Rancher Lee Hackett (Van Heflin) spends so much time trying to keep the violent streak of his son Ed (Tab Hunter) in check, he neglects the needs of his other son Davy (James Darren). When Ed's temper results in the death of an innocent Native American, Lee tries his best to cover his son's tracks by making a deal with unscrupulous horse trader Jensen (Ray Teal), who falsely testifies on Ed's behalf. But it becomes clear that Ed can't change, and a shootout between father and son ensues.