Soil Sampling Equipment Recommendation:

JMC Backsaver Handle with Zero Contamination Tube ($565-$630)
Our most popular item. Very portable. Handgrip remains near waist level throughout sampling procedure. Footpedal not only adjusts height of handgrip, but also offers extra leverage in dry soils.

JMC T-Handle, Mallet, and JMC Zero Contamination Tube ($320-$750)
Inexpensive method for sampling hard soils.

JMC Environmentalist's Sub-Soil Probe ($2250-$5350)
By far the best option. This probe features a sliding drop-hammer and a foot-operated jack. Great system for all soils now and more capabilities later.