A reversible impact-operated boring tool and a method for reversing the direction of operation of the same rapidly and safely is disclosed. The tool according to the invention possesses a second supply line for supplying pressurized fluid to the tool. The second supply line provides pressurized fluid to a directional valve within the tool. The tool operates in the forward mode for burrowing into the soil when pressurized fluid is supplied to this directional valve. When the pressurized fluid supply is terminated and the fluid is exhausted from the valve, the tool operates in the reverse mode. The tool according to the invention can be reversed safely without any need for hose manipulation and without turning off the primary fluid supply line. <IMAGE>
