Abstract: A composite pile structure is formed from a lower wooden section and a tubular metal section connected to the wooden member and filled with concrete. The wooden section is first started into the ground a desired distance, and the metal section is then supported on the upper end of the wooden member. A mandrel member is located in driving engagement with the upper end of the metal section and the lower end of the mandrel is supported in spaced relation to the wooden member. Initial hammer energy of limited intensity is applied to drive the metal section into the wooden member until the bottom of the mandrel comes into contact with the top of the wooden member. Thereafter, hammer energy of greater intensity is applied to the connected sections and concentrated against the surface area of the wooden member enclosed by the imbedded metal section. The pile driving operation is rapidly carried on, and splitting of the wooden member is avoided by applying the hammer energy in the manner described.