Abstract: Ripper point structure includes a nose with a tapered top that initiates lift and fracture of compacted soil layers. The tapered top with an included angle of about 100 degrees just forward of the parting wear shin creates a parting stress which increases until the center portion of the soil profile is cut by a sharp leading edge of the shin. In a winged embodiment, gently sloping ripper point wings gradually enter the fracture plane left below the lifted compaction layer and initiate a second fracture of the soil profile. The wings are spaced rearwardly from the point so that the point and wear shin have enough time to lift, fracture, and part the soil profile in contact with the shank prior to any wing action.