Originally Aired: November 10, 1957

In Gunsmoke #292, “Gun Shy,” a timid young Easterner named Tom Wilson comes west chasing dime-novel dreams of frontier glory—only to discover that the prairie demands more than courage in stories. After failing as a ranch hand and accidentally shooting himself in the leg, Tom’s confidence sinks even lower. Convinced he doesn’t belong in the West—or anywhere near a gun—he prepares to return home in shame.

But when a holdup man storms a Dodge City store, the frightened boy is forced to choose between fear and action. In a split second that will define his life, Tom grabs a gun and faces the danger he’s always dreaded. Marshal Matt Dillon witnesses the tragic cost of proving oneself in a land where myths of heroism often collide with harsh reality.

A poignant and thoughtful episode exploring pride, courage, and the dangerous romance of the American frontier.

Cast: William Conrad, Parley Baer, Howard McNear, Georgia Ellis

Tags:

western, frontierlife, MattDillon, Chester, DocAdams, KittyRussell, comingofage, courage, tragedy, gunfightermyth, DodgeCity, oldtimeradio, classicwestern, radioDrama, 1950sradio, redemption, pride, Gunsmoke