Tambores da Morte (1954) was shot mostly on the Universal back-lot, with location filming at Barton Flats, Red Rock Canyon State Park, San Bernardino National Forest, Burro Flats Simi Hills, Mojave desert, Kernville and Angeles National Forest, all in California. The Ute territory in Colorado, which had recently been damaged in a forest fire, was recreated for the film.
The Films of Audie Murphy authors Bob Larkins and Boyd Magers write that, "During the filming of Tambores da Morte (1954), for realism, Audie Murphy insisted the prop guns be loaded with full charges instead of the usual quarter loads. Consequently, when Hugh O'Brian carelessly fired off his pistol near Audie's face, Murphy received powder burns on his face and neck."
This was Audie Murphy's last film with Director Nathan Juran. Their three collaborations were A Morte Tem Seu Preço (1953), A Ronda da Vingança (1953) and Tambores da Morte (1954).
In Tambores da Morte (1954) playing an important role in the action is Jay Silverheels as Taos, the warrior son of Ute chief Ouray (Morris Ankrum). Silverheels, on leave from playing Lone Ranger's Indian sidekick Tonto in Zorro (1949) series, delivers a solemn, regal performance. Future The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp (1955) series star Hugh O'Brian is a black-clad gunman with a deadly smile. Lisa Gaye, sister of the better-known Debra Paget, provides Murphy's love interest.