The father-son bond in The Rifleman remains one of the most cherished in television history, even 60 years after its original run. For those who grew up in the late 1950s, this Western classic was a household staple, teaching timeless values like respect, honesty, and resilience.
But beyond its heartfelt moments and moral lessons, The Rifleman also left behind a treasure trove of little-known mistakes, fun bloopers, and fascinating behind-the-scenes facts that even the show’s most devoted fans might not know. Let’s saddle up and explore the quirks, slip-ups, and surprises hidden in this beloved Western.
A Trendsetting Cowboy Ahead of His Time
Lucas McCain, played by Chuck Connors, was a man of the 1880s—but his wardrobe said otherwise. In the episode End of a Young Gun, sharp-eyed viewers might spot the iconic “W” stitching on the back pocket of McCain’s jeans. That’s right—he’s wearing Wranglers, a brand that wouldn’t come into existence until the 1940s.
While this might be a glaring historical inaccuracy, it inadvertently made McCain a trendsetter. Who knew that a 19th-century cowboy could be ahead of his time by nearly half a century?
Chuck Connors’ Son Makes a Special Appearance
The father-son relationship between Lucas McCain and Mark, played by Johnny Crawford, was a defining feature of the series. But did you know Chuck Connors’ real-life son appeared in one episode?
In Tension, viewers catch a glimpse of Jeff Connors, Chuck’s second son, playing Toby, the grieving child of a deceased friend of the McCains. With just two lines of dialogue, Jeff’s cameo added a special familial connection to the show. Tragically, Jeff Connors passed away in 2014, leaving behind a legacy tied to this classic series.
The Winchester Rifle: A Scene-Stealing Prop
Lucas McCain’s Winchester rifle was almost a character in its own right, with its iconic rapid-fire action becoming synonymous with the show. However, the 1892 Winchester used in the series was a historical anomaly, as The Rifleman was set in the 1870s and 1880s.
This famous rifle had a storied Hollywood history—it was previously used by John Wayne in the 1939 classic Stagecoach. Chuck Connors’ athletic prowess (he was a professional basketball and baseball player) allowed him to perform the rifle’s dramatic spins and rapid-fire sequences without trick photography. Customizations to the weapon’s lever action made those high-speed shots possible, cementing the Winchester as an unforgettable part of The Rifleman.
Casting Challenges and Connors’ Big Break
Securing the role of Lucas McCain wasn’t easy for Chuck Connors. He was initially one of 40 actors considered for the role, but ABC’s low salary offer made him hesitant to accept.
What changed? The producers’ children. After seeing Connors in the movie Old Yeller, where he played a strong father figure, the kids were so impressed they convinced the producers to reconsider their offer. The revised deal included a five-percent ownership stake in the show—a decision that ultimately made The Rifleman one of Connors’ most iconic roles.
Hair and Wardrobe Faux Pas
Despite its Old West setting, The Rifleman couldn’t fully escape the influence of the 1950s and 1960s. Many actors sported modern hairstyles that were far from authentic for the 1880s, and full-front button-down shirts—a style that didn’t emerge until the 1920s—frequently made appearances.
These anachronisms didn’t detract from the show’s charm but served as a subtle reminder of the era in which the series was filmed.
A Father-Son Bond On and Off the Screen
The relationship between Chuck Connors and Johnny Crawford wasn’t just an act—it was genuine. Connors took Crawford under his wing, becoming a mentor both on and off the set. Their bond extended beyond the show’s run, with Crawford often speaking fondly of Connors’ influence on his life.
Crawford recalled how Connors would recite Shakespeare or tell captivating baseball stories between takes. Connors’ love for storytelling and mentorship created a lasting impression on the young actor.
Even Marshal Micah Torrence, played by Paul Fix, took on a protective role for Crawford during filming. Fix insisted on stringent safety measures around firearms, a precaution rooted in his own near-death experience as a child.
Sammy Davis Jr.’s Standout Performance
In the episode Two Ounces of Tin, Sammy Davis Jr. guest-starred as outlaw Tip Corey. Known as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, Davis impressed the crew with his quick-draw and gun-twirling skills—all performed without a stand-in.
This episode showcased Davis’ versatility and proved that his talents extended far beyond music and comedy.
Johnny Crawford’s Childhood Mishap
Long before becoming a star on The Rifleman, Johnny Crawford had a less-than-stellar audition experience as a 3-year-old. During a film shoot, Rosalind Russell handed him a chocolate bar for a scene. When the director called for a retake, young Crawford refused to return the candy, leading to a botched shoot and a joking claim that he’d been “blacklisted.”
This playful anecdote highlights Crawford’s early charm, which would later make him a beloved child actor.
The Buddy Hackett Twist
Hollywood casting can be full of surprises, and The Rifleman was no exception. In one episode, comedian Buddy Hackett played the father of a character portrayed by Christopher Dark, an actor actually four years his senior.
This creative casting added an amusing layer to the show’s dynamic, proving that age in Hollywood is just a number.
Behind-the-Scenes Drama with Milly Scott
In season three, Milly Scott, played by Joan Taylor, seemed poised to become Lucas McCain’s love interest. However, her character abruptly left in season four with little explanation.
The producers’ search for a new female lead led to the introduction of Lou Mallory, portrayed by Patricia Blair. Connors himself played an active role in the casting process, interviewing over 60 actresses before finding the perfect fit in Blair.
The Enduring Legacy of The Rifleman
Despite its occasional bloopers and anachronisms, The Rifleman has cemented its place in television history. Its blend of action, heartfelt storytelling, and timeless values continues to resonate with audiences decades later.
Chuck Connors and Johnny Crawford’s unforgettable performances brought the McCains’ bond to life, leaving an indelible mark on fans. From its iconic Winchester rifle to its behind-the-scenes quirks, The Rifleman remains a shining example of classic Western television done right.
As fans revisit this beloved series, these little-known details and bloopers only add to its charm, reminding us why we fell in love with North Fork and its unforgettable characters in the first place.
