Interesting watch, especially after the remake (which improved on some plot holes). The first half is a "typical western" that you could easily see Wayne or Stewart in. But the second half (once they arrive in Contention), sees this turn into more of a psychological drama.
Especially surprising is that Wade's torments actually seem to break the hero, Evans. In this movie, Evans then suddenly seems to "right" himself and get on the train with a happy ending because Wade, for some inexplicable reason, decides to help him.
The acting of the 2 leads is top notch (esp Ford), but all else are left aside and not developed. The score and cinematography are superb.
Overall an above average western, worthy of its status as a classic, but not the masterpiece I was hoping for.