Johnny Macklin and Winks, en route to the Benthan ranch to investigate a range war, stay overnight at the ranch of Buck Stace on an invitation from Buck's son Bill. Johnny learns that most of the cattle have been stolen and Buck claims that Sheriff Wallace has proof that Benthan is responsible. Buck is killed that night. Johnny captures gunman Randall, who signs a confession that he was hired by Benthan, but he is actually employed by the Sheriff who is instigating the range war to further his own plans for the two ranches. The sheriff sets Randall free to stage another raid with Deputy Rubio. Johnny, Winks and Bill meet Bess Benthan, and find her dad and his cowhands murdered at their ranch camp. Rubio arrests Johnny, Winks and Bill for the killings, and orders Bess off of her Dad's ranch, which the outlaws take over.