Cattlemen ride alone across the open range under the deadly aim of roving desperadoes Gamblers stake their fortunes and their lives on a deck of cards Strong-willed senoritas seek independence through an enticing combination of beauty,audacity, and spirit Lawmen and outlaws walk the same dusty streets and speak a common language: Colt, Winchester,Smith & Wesson. Gritty, tough, and unflinchingly authentic,here is the West as it really was: a land where for every friend there is an enemy, for every handshake a fist, for every dispute a resolution--usually in an explosive showdown of blood-and bullets. In these remarkable tales, Louis L'Amour--like the very heroes he depicts--blazes a trail across the American frontier and takes us on an unforgettable journey into the heart of our western heritage.

We Shaped the Land with Our Guns / 1

West of the Pilot Range / 25

When a Texan Takes Over / 45

No Man's Mesa / 63

Gila Crossing/77

Medicine Ground / 99

Valley of the Sun / 121

That Slash Seven Kid / 139

In Victorio's Country / 159