Ep 1. Alaska

In "Ax Men" season 4, episode 1 titled "Alaska," the high-stakes world of logging is back with a brand new season of hardworking men competing to see who can make the most profit. Filmed in the rugged wilderness of Alaska, the episode features an all-new cast of loggers ready to risk their lives to bring back the most valuable lumber.

The episode kicks off with a focus on the Rygaard Logging Company. Located in the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest, this team is determined to come out on top this season. Headed up by Gabe Rygaard, this logging company is a family affair, with Gabe's wife and son also working alongside him every day. With a tough economic climate looming, the crew is looking to make some serious money this season, and they know it won't be easy. Day one of the season sees them facing some major challenges right from the start. An unexpected rainstorm has turned the already treacherous ground into a slippery, muddy mess, making it difficult for trucks to navigate through the forest. But the team perseveres, pushing their equipment to the limit to get the job done.

In addition to Rygaard, we also meet a new player in the game: the team at Zitterkopf Logging. Based in the small Alaskan town of Tok, this dedicated group of workers is tackling the tough terrain of the frozen north. Led by daring owner Dave Zitterkopf, the team is determined to make their mark in the logging world, despite the many dangers they face. From unpredictable weather to bears that threaten their campsites, these loggers know that every day could be their last. But with a fierce dedication to their craft, they push forward to bring in the necessary lumber.

The episode also features the crew at Pihl Logging, a team that's no stranger to the challenges of the logging industry. Based in Vernonia, Oregon, Pihl Logging has been around for over 80 years, and they've seen it all. From devastating wildfires to harsh economic climates, this team of loggers has weathered the ups and downs of the industry. Now, as they head to Alaska for the new season, they're ready to take on whatever comes their way.

Of course, no episode of "Ax Men" would be complete without some heart-pumping action, and "Alaska" delivers plenty of that. From crossing treacherous rivers to dodging falling trees, the loggers in this episode are constantly putting their lives on the line. In particular, we see some harrowing footage of Zitterkopf Logging as they face down a massive tree that threatens to take out their entire operation. With no room for error, the crew works together to bring the tree down safely, executing the task with skill and precision.

On the Rygaard Logging Company front, tensions are high as they face some tough financial decisions and grapple with equipment issues. With winter approaching, the team needs to bring in as much lumber as possible before the snow starts falling. But as they push their machines to the limit, things start to break down, and tempers flare. The pressure is on to keep up with the competition, but at what cost?

Overall, "Ax Men" season 4, episode 1 is a thrilling start to the new season. With an all-new cast of characters and plenty of pulse-pounding action, it's an exciting glimpse into the world of logging and the people who make their living in this challenging industry.