Abstract: A distinguishing feature of the present invention consists in that the menism for driving in rod-shaped elements into compact or frozen ground comprises a guide tube to accommodate said rod-shaped element. The tube extends throughout the length of the shell and is secured in the extension and the front portion of said shell, coaxially with the stepped ram and the shell. The outer surface of said guide tube contacts the inner surface of the axial hole in the stepped ram and has at least one channel which puts the rear and front working chambers in communication with each other when the stepped ram is in the foremost position, while the front portion of the shell is provided with a rigidly secured clamp for holding the rod-shaped element.