The Pionjar was a staple in our day-to-day operations for a few years until the Big Beaver joined our fleet in 1996, marking the beginning of a new era in drilling capabilities. Fast forward to 2024, and Kodiak now operates with eight different types of small drills, each tailored to meet specific project needs.
Read on to explore our lineup, from the oldest to newest innovations.
Pionjar: 1994
Kodiak’s first drill works by driving a standard 2″ split spoon into the ground through rapid percussion. As sampling continues, additional rods are added to reach greater depths. While it performs best up to 15 feet, it’s capable of pushing past 20 feet when needed. Its biggest advantage is mobility, going nearly anywhere a person can, including basements, slopes, remote sites, tight spaces around machinery, up or down stairs, and other areas out of reach for larger equipment. Curious about what the Pionjar (pronounced “Pun-Yar”) can do? Find out more here.
Big Beaver(s): 1996, 2020
The Big Beaver was the first machine we used that went beyond the capabilities of a jackhammer or Pionjar. It introduced a level of performance we hadn’t experienced before and helped us continue our mission: using tools compact enough to go where big machines can’t. The Big Beaver uses a 140-pound hammer to drive a 2-inch split spoon sampler, while augers bore the hole. Later, we converted a Big Beaver into a new model called the Track Beaver, essentially a tracked version that offers added mobility and other advantages. Both Beavers are commonly used indoors for soil sampling and groundwater monitoring, typically at depths of 8 to 40 feet. Learn what makes the Beaver a standout in our lineup here.
MiniMole(s): 2005, 2018, 2021
The Minimole has been a trusted part of our fleet since 2005, when we first introduced the original unit (M2) which is still going strong today. In 2018, we expanded our capabilities with a newer model (M3), followed by a third addition in 2021 (M4). It’s safe to say the Minimole has earned its place as a favourite among both our team and clients. Custom-built by a specialized shop to meet our unique limited-access needs, these drills combine exceptional versatility with impressive power. With a drill head torque ranging from 2,200 to 4,000 foot-pounds, they approach the capabilities of many truck-mounted rigs—all within a compact footprint. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, Minimole units are perfectly suited for boreholes ranging from 15 to 50 feet deep. Explore what sets the Minimole apart, and why it continues to be a standout performer in our fleet here.
MiniProbe: 2012
The MiniProbe stands out for its exceptional direct push sampling power, all packed into a remarkably compact rubber track carrier. At first glance, it might resemble a toy drill due to its size but don’t be fooled. This small but mighty machine features a robust 201 ft-lb direct push hammer, capable of driving conventional dual-tube probe-style tooling. That means you can achieve reliable, cased-hole soil sampling to depths that often exceed 25 feet, meeting and even surpassing the demands of many job sites. When groundwater sampling is needed, we can install monitoring wells within the dual-tube tooling. Plus, with a quick changeover, the MiniProbe easily transitions from direct push sampling to augering, offering even greater versatility. Discover more of what makes the MiniProbe such a uniquely capable addition to our fleet here.
GeoProbe 420: 2012
The GeoProbe 420 is the smallest drill and the most compact direct push machine in our fleet. Despite its size, it’s a capable tool often deployed on sites where the Big Beaver might also be considered. Though, each has distinct advantages depending on the project’s needs. Explore the unique capabilities of the GeoProbe 420 and find out where it shines here.
GeoProbe 6620: 2016
At Kodiak, our largest drill is the GeoProbe 6620. A compact yet powerful machine that combines the capabilities of larger rigs with the agility to navigate tight spaces and limited access areas. Equipped with a 140lb automatic drop hammer and direct push systems, the GeoProbe 6620 is perfectly suited for both geotechnical and environmental investigations.Thanks to its efficiency and versatility, many of our clients choose this drill for projects in areas where a truck-mounted or larger drill might not fit. Want to discover what sets the GeoProbe 6620 apart? Learn more about its unique advantages here.
GeoTool: 2020
The GeoTool is revolutionizing the industry with its innovative design, moving away from traditional auger-based methods. Instead, it utilizes a hammer-driven system to efficiently drive soil samplers. What truly sets the GeoTool apart is its ability to collect Standard Penetration Tests (SPTs) through split spoon sampling in areas with very low head clearance; places where other drills simply can’t reach. Discover more about our newest drill and its groundbreaking capabilities here.