Ep 16. The Gold-Plated Rifle

The Gold-Plated Rifle is an episode in season 12 of the iconic western television series, Bonanza. Set in the late 1800s, the show follows the Cartwright family— patriarch Ben and his three sons Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe— as they navigate life on their sprawling Nevada ranch, the Ponderosa.

In this episode, the Cartwrights are excited to host a prestigious hunting party on their property. Among the guests is a wealthy and eccentric easterner named Archie Harmon, who quickly makes his presence known with his ostentatious display of wealth and his peculiar mannerisms. Harmon insists on using a gold-plated rifle while hunting, much to the amusement and chagrin of the Cartwrights.

Despite the initial awkwardness, the hunting party sets out into the wild. However, things take a dark turn when Harmon accidentally shoots and kills the local sheriff while aiming for a deer. Panicked at the thought of being held responsible for the tragedy, Harmon flees the scene on horseback, hoping to avoid justice.

The Cartwrights and the other hunting party members are left to pick up the pieces and try to find the fugitive. However, their efforts are complicated by the fact that Harmon's wealth and status have helped him secure friends and allies in the local community, who may be willing to protect him.

As the search for Harmon intensifies, the Cartwrights begin to unravel the true nature of their eccentric guest. It becomes clear that Harmon's wealth is not entirely legitimate and that he has a dark past that he is desperate to keep hidden. Along the way, they encounter other members of the hunting party who may have secrets of their own, as well as hostile locals who are not willing to help the Cartwrights bring Harmon to justice.

Ultimately, the episode culminates in a tense confrontation between Harmon and the Cartwrights, where the truth finally comes to light. Through their courage and tenacity, the Cartwrights are able to bring Harmon to justice and put an end to his reign of terror.

The Gold-Plated Rifle is a classic episode of Bonanza, full of drama, suspense, and action. It showcases the unique blend of moral values, family loyalty, and gritty western flavor that have made the show a beloved classic for over six decades.