A spring-loaded footpedal controls the position of a telescoping rod inside the handgrip. Rather than add extensions to sample deeper, step down lightly on the footpedal to let more rod slide out of the handle. Then step down hard to lock the rod into place and plant the sampling tube into the soil. To retrieve the sample, put both feet on the ground. Push the handgrip down to waist level. Bend your knees slightly and while holding the handgrip stationary against your pelvis, straighten your legs. This will raise the whole apparatus an inch or two out of the ground. Push the handgrip back down to waist level and use your legs again. Each time you do this, the rod will retract into the handle. In no time at all, you will have your sample brought to the surface.