The working title of this film was Rough Shoot, which was also the film's British release title in February 1953. The opening and closing cast credits vary in order. According to the pressbook, Geoffrey Household's novel was originally serialized under the title Run from the Hangman; the publication and date have not been determined. Shoot First was filmed on location in England. Some scenes were shot in Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in London.