More than six decades after it first aired, The Rifleman still holds a special place in television history, particularly for its heartfelt portrayal of a father-son relationship. For many who grew up in the late 1950s, the show wasn’t just another Western—it was a weekly lesson in integrity, perseverance, and respect.
But behind the emotional stories and moral themes, this iconic series also featured some amusing goofs, hidden gems, and unexpected tidbits that even die-hard fans may have missed. Let’s take a closer look at the overlooked details and behind-the-scenes blunders that add a new layer of charm to this classic.
A Cowboy Fashion Icon—By Mistake
Lucas McCain, brought to life by Chuck Connors, was meant to be a rugged cowboy of the 1880s. However, eagle-eyed fans might notice a modern twist in the episode End of a Young Gun—specifically, the unmistakable “W” stitching on the back of his jeans. McCain was sporting Wranglers, a brand that wouldn’t be established until the 1940s.
This historical blunder unintentionally made McCain one of the most stylish cowboys of the Old West—nearly 50 years ahead of his time.
Chuck Connors’ Real Son’s On-Screen Moment
The show’s central father-son dynamic between Lucas and Mark (Johnny Crawford) was authentic on many levels—and in one episode, it extended to real life. Chuck Connors’ actual son, Jeff Connors, made a brief appearance in the episode Tension, portraying a grieving boy named Toby. Though his screen time was short, his cameo added a personal touch to the series. Sadly, Jeff passed away in 2014, but his moment on the show remains a heartfelt footnote in its history.
A Rifle with a Story of Its Own
The Winchester rifle used by Lucas McCain was nearly as famous as the character himself. However, this particular model—the 1892 Winchester—was technically out of place, as the show was set in the 1870s and 1880s.
Interestingly, this rifle had appeared on the big screen before—most notably in the 1939 film Stagecoach with John Wayne. Connors’ background as a pro athlete allowed him to master the weapon’s rapid-fire moves and spins, made even more dramatic by a customized lever-action system. The rifle became a signature of the show’s action sequences.
The Unlikely Path to Connors’ Lead Role
Chuck Connors wasn’t the immediate choice for the lead role. He was one of about 40 actors in consideration, and initially passed due to a low offer from ABC. However, the tide turned when the producers’ children, who had seen Connors in Old Yeller, lobbied for him to be cast.
Eventually, producers sweetened the deal with a five-percent ownership stake in the show—a decision that would prove lucrative for Connors and pivotal for the show’s success.
Style Errors That Snuck Into the Old West
Though the series was set in the 19th century, some fashion and hairstyle choices didn’t quite match the era. Actors often wore slick, mid-century hairstyles and modern full-button shirts, which weren’t popular until the 1920s.
While these inconsistencies were minor, they served as subtle reminders that The Rifleman was very much a product of the 1950s and 1960s.
A Bond That Went Beyond the Script
The connection between Connors and Crawford wasn’t just for the cameras. Off-screen, Connors became a true mentor to his young co-star, often engaging him with stories, including quotes from Shakespeare and tales from his baseball days.
This mentorship extended to others on set as well. Actor Paul Fix, who played Marshal Micah Torrance, ensured strict safety practices during firearm scenes—a reflection of his own traumatic childhood experience involving a gun.
Sammy Davis Jr. Steals the Show
In a standout guest role, Sammy Davis Jr. appeared in the episode Two Ounces of Tin as the gunslinger Tip Corey. Known for his talents as a singer and entertainer, Davis surprised the cast and crew by performing all his gun-slinging stunts without a double—highlighting his versatility and adding a memorable twist to the series.
A Chocolate Bar and a Child Star’s Early Setback
Before he rose to fame as Mark McCain, Johnny Crawford had a bumpy start in the entertainment world. At age three, he was cast in a scene with Rosalind Russell, who handed him a chocolate bar. When a retake was called, young Crawford refused to give the candy back, halting the shoot and jokingly earning himself a “blacklisted” reputation as a toddler.
The story became a light-hearted anecdote about the young actor’s early showbiz experiences.
Age is Just a Number in Hollywood
In a casting quirk that only Hollywood could pull off, comedian Buddy Hackett once portrayed the father of a character played by Christopher Dark—despite being four years younger than him. The unusual pairing added an unintentionally humorous element to the episode and served as a fun reminder that TV casting doesn’t always follow logic.
Behind-the-Scenes Shakeup with Milly Scott
Season three introduced Milly Scott (Joan Taylor) as a potential love interest for Lucas. But by season four, her character vanished without explanation. Producers were looking for a fresh female lead and eventually cast Patricia Blair as Lou Mallory.
Interestingly, Chuck Connors played a direct role in the decision, personally interviewing more than 60 actresses before selecting Blair for the part.
A Western That Still Resonates
Despite a few costume blunders and casting oddities, The Rifleman remains a cherished part of TV history. Its mix of action, emotional storytelling, and strong moral themes continues to connect with fans across generations.
The real-life camaraderie between Chuck Connors and Johnny Crawford, combined with iconic moments like the famous rifle and standout guest performances, helped cement The Rifleman as one of the most beloved Westerns of its time.
Revisiting these lesser-known facts and behind-the-scenes stories only deepens our appreciation for the series—and reminds us why North Fork and its characters still live on in the hearts of so many viewers.