In Wanted -- A Gun, a tense atmosphere envelops a dingy pet shop where Mercer, a young man in distress, seeks a firearm to protect himself from Jeff Robbins, a recently released convict with a violent past. Robbins has a history of jealousy and aggression, particularly towards Mercer, whom he blames for his troubles. As Mercer explains his predicament to Paxton, the pet shop owner, the stakes are raised; he fears for his life and is unwilling to involve the police. Paxton reluctantly agrees to procure a gun for Mercer, setting the stage for impending violence.