I use this to dig small 1" deep trenches for automatic watering lines (drip irrigation).  This protects them from damage.  All I have to do is move the flexible line aside, then run this unit along the tube's route, then a parallel trench alongside it;  a simple hoe or other tool takes out the space in-between the two lines that it cut.  It's a great work saver and does a neat job.  It has the power and is easy to use - although it does kick-up a bit of airborne dust ahead of it when digging (not usually a problem, however).  When digging with it, just remember to only push it as fast as you can without lugging the motor down (wherein it could get too hot).  Again, it has plenty of power, so again, this isn't usually a problem.  I've cut through dry clay that a pick-ax bounced off of - but this unit dug right into it.  I'd advise that you should use it only in dry soil, as cleaning mud off of it is tedious.