Ep 9. Old Log, New Tricks

The show Ax Men follows several logging crews as they navigate the dangerous terrain of the Pacific Northwest while facing challenges from weather, equipment, and each other. Season 8 episode 9, titled "Old Log, New Tricks," features the loggers as they attempt to harvest a particularly large and valuable old-growth timber, known as the "granddaddy of the forest."

The episode begins with the Stump Branch crew, led by father-and-son duo Earl and Isaac, as they attempt to retrieve the granddaddy log from a steep hillside. The log is estimated to be worth over $100,000, and the crew is determined to get it out of the forest. However, the terrain proves to be difficult and they are forced to use a combination of winches and chainsaws to maneuver the log down the hill.

Meanwhile, rival crew Rygaard Logging is also on the hunt for the granddaddy log. Owner Craig Rygaard sees the log as an opportunity to gain an advantage over Stump Branch and orders his crew to search for it. They soon locate it on a neighboring hillside and begin to plan their retrieval.

As both crews work to extract the log, tension builds between them. Earl and Isaac accuse Rygaard Logging of stealing their log, while Craig argues that he found it fair and square. The situation becomes even more heated when the Stump Branch crew discovers that Rygaard Logging has brought in a helicopter to airlift the log out of the forest. Earl and Isaac see this as a dangerous and reckless move, while Craig insists that it's necessary to get the log out quickly and safely.

The episode also features other logging crews, including Chapman Logging, who struggle to keep up with the competition and make a profit. They attempt to salvage a load of timber that has been damaged by a wildfire, but find that the wood is of poor quality and hard to sell.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into the dangerous and demanding life of a logger. They witness the physical and mental challenges of working in the forest, as well as the competitive and often cutthroat nature of the industry. Through it all, the loggers remain determined and resilient, continuing to chase after the granddaddy log and other valuable timber.

Overall, "Old Log, New Tricks" is a thrilling episode of Ax Men that showcases the intense competition and high stakes of the logging industry. Viewers will be captivated by the loggers' struggle to retrieve the granddaddy log, as well as the challenges faced by other crews. With stunning footage of the Pacific Northwest wilderness and gripping drama, this episode is sure to entertain and engage viewers.