Originally Aired: April 20, 1958

In Gunsmoke #315, "The Partners," a dangerous carnival act comes to Dodge City when two performers named Grover Cranston and Little Maury arrive with a deadly exhibition. The partners shoot tin cans off each other's heads for money, drawing crowds eager to witness what could be a fatal mistake. Marshal Matt Dillon shuts down their first performance in the streets, but the duo moves just outside town limits to continue their risky shows. While their poker game prospers and the crowds grow larger, tensions begin to rise between the partners when the widow Effie Gans enters the picture.

As the situation develops, both Doc Adams and Chester find themselves drawn to watch the dangerous act, while Kitty observes the growing complications. The marshal becomes concerned that the partners might be scheming to fleece the widow, who has suddenly sold her house for cash. However, Doc suggests the situation might be more complicated, comparing Effie Gans to a pretty rattlesnake. When Little Maury confronts the widow about his feelings and hints at darker possibilities, Matt Dillon realizes something dangerous is brewing beyond just the deadly shooting exhibition.