This is a lightweight trowel designed to dig small cat-holes in soft to medium compacted soil. It is not designed to be strong enough to work in heavily compacted soils, or rocks. No ultralight trowel will handle this type of soil, but go ahead and try. If you break it, send it back to us (Tye Works) and we will send you a replacement. This trowel was created to be comfortable to use in most situations, while keeping the weight at about an ounce. Consider that if it is very difficult to dig your cat-hole, you are planning on doing your business in the wrong place, and should look for a more suitable location.