[1] The series is set 30 years after the events of the Evil Dead trilogy, and follows Ash Williams, who now works at the "Value Stop" as a simple stock boy.
Having spent his life not doing anything remarkable since the events of the trilogy, Ash will have to renounce his routine existence and become a hero once more by taking up arms and facing the titular Evil Dead.
In the episode, Ash must fight his biggest battle as Kandar the Destroyer arrives in town and stop the Evil Dead from taking over the world.
According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 0.174 million household viewers and gained a 0.09 ratings share among adults aged 18–49.
Needing to go back to the hardware store, Pablo takes Kelly's body as he is undetected by evil, while Ash and Brandy leave through the sewers.
Ash and Brandy are ambushed by Deadites but manage to escape and reach the hardware store and reunite with Pablo.
Realizing that the military intends to nuke the town, which will by itself make Kandar stronger, Ash decides to face him alone, taking the Kandarian Dagger and sending the evacuated Pablo, Kelly and Brandy away.
"[4] In its original American broadcast, "The Mettle of Man" was seen by an estimated 0.174 million household viewers and gained a 0.09 ratings share among adults aged 18–49, according to Nielsen Media Research.
Evil Dead left the air for good, 'The Mettle of Man' wasn't going to fully fulfill your desires.
"[8] Stephen Harber of Den of Geek gave the episode a perfect 5 star rating out of 5 and wrote, "And so Ash vs Evil Dead comes to a close, stripping away the side-characters we've grown to know and love as well as the setting of Elk Grove.
Even though I will miss Ash vs Evil Dead's presence on the airwaves, as well as a weekly dose of Bruce Campbell in his most recognizable role, I can't think of a better send-off for his character.
"[9] Steve Ford of TV Fanatic gave the episode a 4.8 star rating out of 5 and wrote, "Sadly, all things must come to an end.
"[11] Sean Aitchison of TV Overmind wrote, "Though the finale was still a fitting end to the franchise (for now), the ambitious teaser for a post-apocalyptic future felt bittersweet.