Ep 1. Axes and Allies

In the first episode of season 7 of Ax Men, titled "Axes and Allies," viewers are reintroduced to some of the crews featured in previous seasons, as well as a few new faces. The episode kicks off with the arrival of Darrell Holthusen, the new leader of the Papac Alaska Logging crew, who are looking to reclaim their title as the top logging crew in the state.

Meanwhile, over in Montana, the S&S Aqua Logging team is dealing with some unexpected obstacles as they attempt to retrieve submerged logs from a river. The loggers must contend with swift currents, dangerous obstacles, and even a run-in with local wildlife as they work to pull out the valuable timber.

Next, we catch up with the Rygaard Logging crew, who are working on a particularly challenging job in Washington state. The team is tasked with hauling massive logs up a steep hillside using a complicated system of cables and heavy machinery. But when one of their trucks gets stuck in the mud, they quickly realize they may have taken on more than they can handle.

Back in Alaska, the Papac crew faces their own set of challenges as they try to navigate a narrow waterway in search of logs. But when a passing barge creates a massive wave that threatens to capsize their boat, the crew is forced to make a split-second decision that could have dire consequences.

Meanwhile, in Florida, the Dreadknots are dealing with a different kind of problem: a shortage of logs. With their usual sources of timber dried up, the crew must venture further afield in search of wood. But when they hit a roadblock in the form of a previously untapped logging site that is now off-limits, they must get creative in order to secure the logs they need.

Finally, the episode concludes with a surprise announcement from Shelby Stanga, the larger-than-life logger known as the "Swamp Man." Shelby reveals that he will be teaming up with a group of competitors to take on an ambitious new project, one that will require all of their skills and expertise.

Overall, "Axes and Allies" sets the stage for what promises to be another action-packed season of Ax Men, as the loggers navigate treacherous terrain, battle the elements, and push themselves to the limit in pursuit of their goals. Fans of the show will be thrilled to see some familiar faces, as well as some exciting new additions to the cast.