The profile sampler allows taking of a sizeable and virtually undisturbed sample up to a depth of approximately 40 cm (10 cm wide and 5 cm across). All roots, up to a cross-section of 2 cm, are included in the sample. When sampling, both U-shaped gutters are pushed alternatingly into the soil, until the required depth is reached, after which one side of the handle is pulled sharply upwards and the other pushed downwards, thus clamping the profile. The profile sampler may now be extracted and opened to sample or describe the profile. Also replacing the sample taken (in order to reduce the disturbance of the location to be researched to a minimum) is easily executed.